The Northwestern Ambulance Corps, Route 309, New Tripoli, recently mailed a fundraising letter to residents within their 104-square mile coverage area in Northwestern Lehigh County and parts of Berks County in an attempt to raise $100,000.

"Over the last five years the economy and the new health care reform laws have taken its toll on many ambulance services," the letter states. "Northwestern Ambulance Corps is no exception. Because of these new laws and due to a very bad economy, we have seen a tremendous drop in the amount of money we receive from insurance carriers and Medicare.

"This drop is so severe our costs to provide ambulance services to our community are not being covered. As a result of this, we have been losing money each year and we cannot afford to continue without your help."

"Response to the letter has been good but we are still a long way from the goal" said Executive Director Kathryn Van Allen, who recently spoke with The Press.

The corps' employees about 20 part-time and full-time EMTs and paramedics who work 24/7 to serve the community.

"Northwestern Ambulance Corp is a volunteer run, non-profit organization that has been providing services to the community for more than 40 years," Van Allen said.

The letter states: "Our costs to pay our staff, pay for the required workers comp insurance, purchase medical supplies and keep our ambulances serviced and safe increase each year … Without asking for your help and donations, Northwestern will not survive."

For information and to get a copy of the letter, call 610-298-2159. Leave a message and one of the directors will return the call.