On June 21, 2021, due to ongoing pandemic restrictions, Deputy Mayor Rick Maloney raised the St. John Ambulance flag on behalf of the Barrie Simcoe Muskoka Branch at the Town of Bracebridge Municipal Office.
As Canada’s leading authority in first aid since 1883, St. John trains Ontarians in essential first aid, health and safety knowledge and skills. Serving since 1941, the St. John Ambulance Barrie Simcoe Muskoka Branch has grown to support six volunteer Community Service Groups, including two Medical First Response Units, two Therapy Dog Units, one Youth Unit, and one Car Seat Educator Team.
Last year, as possible during the pandemic, the 181 volunteers of the Branch provided the community with approximately 11,750 hours of volunteer services.
Some highlights for the Barrie Simcoe Muskoka Branch in 2020:
- 61 Medical First Response volunteers attended 23 events, treated 7 casualties and contributed over 3,971 hours of volunteer service;
- 11 Youth volunteers contributed over 813 volunteer hours;
- 7 Car Seat Safety Team members educated 79 parents and caregivers, contributing over 525 volunteer hours; and in 2019,
- Volunteers trained 200 residents in a free Mass CPR in partnership with the Rotary Club of Barrie.
Therapy Dog Services figures for the Barrie Simcoe Muskoka Branch in 2020:
- 80 Therapy Dog volunteers;
- 2,074 in-person and virtual visits to 70 facilities including seniors’ residences, hospitals and schools; and
- Contributed over 5,024 volunteer hours.
St. John Ambulance is looking to rebuild its local presence, particularly in relation to Therapy Dogs and First Aid Training. Those interested in joining the local St. John Ambulance Barrie Simcoe Muskoka team are encouraged to contact Ross McLean, Director for the Barrie Simcoe Muskoka Branch, or visit www.sja.ca.
“The Town of Bracebridge is pleased to support St. John Ambulance. The ongoing efforts of the local volunteers to make our community safer by providing first aid training and other community services is greatly appreciated,” said Deputy Mayor Rick Maloney.
