Washington County Ambulance employees were among first responders who could enjoy a free meal on Thanksgiving day courtesy of Washington Hy-Vee.

Jeremy Peck, Director of Washington County Ambulance Services and Fire Chief for the Wellman Fire Department, says the gesture by Hy-Vee was especially nice for crew members and EMTs who couldn’t be with their families on Thanksgiving because they were on duty.  Peck says they’re very grateful to Hy-Vee during a challenging 2020 due to COVID-19. He says his staff has been well supplied with personal protective equipment to respond to emergency calls this year, and their frequent cleaning and sanitation of their vehicles and equipment hasn’t altered since the pandemic. Though an increased call volume this year with staff shortages due to those who may be in quarantine has created stress for the medics and EMTs that are healthy.