County fire departments given $80K grant from Duke Energy Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation has generously provided an $80,000 grant to help Hamilton County fire departments develop a comprehensive behavioral health care plan. Community paramedics will work with law enforcement and behavioral health professionals to connect community members with resources for substance abuse, mental health and medical care. During the funding announcement at Monday’s Hamilton County Commissioners meeting, Board of Commissioners President Mark Heirbrandt recognized County Council member Steve Nation for leading the initiative. Westfield Mayor Andy Cook, EMS Chief Patrick Hutchison and Field Resource Paramedic Captain Eryn Green were among other elected officials and public safety at the announcement.