Local company to donate new emergency vehicle to regional American Red Cross

QMT Windchimes in Manassas reports that it is donating the purchase of an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) to the American Red Cross - National Capital Region (NCR), according to a news release from the company. The Red Cross will use the ERV to serve the Prince William County area.

The new equipment is an on-site shelter that carries food, water and blankets. Features include an updated design, reduced maintenance costs and a longer lifespan. It is also fuel efficient, easier to drive and has ample storage space. According to the news release, “ERVs around the nation are equipped with external dynamic messaging which enables drivers to share real-time information and situational awareness.”

Once ordered, ERV vehicles take 9-12 months to build and equip. This equipment helps the Red Cross meet the needs of people in crisis situations– bringing recovery and relief items to disaster scenes, the news release said. Each vehicle can stock and serve 300 hot meals in locations where victims and first responders are located.

“This is a physical manifestation of serving the community, and will benefit everyone,” Patty Baisden, vice president of QMT Associates, Inc., was quoted as saying in the news release. “We wanted to give back by providing the equipment needed to help those in crisis. The NCR has set a goal to replace four older vehicles and our commitment replaces one of them.”

According to a company statement, “QMT is committed to strengthening our local community, and this practice extends from our conviction that the health of a business and the health of community it serves are interconnected. QMT has an ongoing commitment to charitable giving and supports a selected charity each month through its online retail sales. The charity of the month program has been an ongoing feature of our ecommerce website since its launch in 2011.”