The state of Vermont received a grant totaling nearly $4 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help reimburse expenses associated with Covid-19 response efforts. Since January 2020, Covid-19 has created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public requiring emergency response and protective measures.
The grant, totaling $3,829,746, was awarded to the Vermont Dept. of Public Safety for the cost of personal protection equipment (PPE) and N95 sterilizer machines during the time between March 1, 2020 through Sept. 14, 2020.
The state made the determination to work collaboratively with the University of Vermont Medical Center (UVMMC) for procurement of PPE and medical equipment due to UVMMC’s connections and capabilities beyond those of the state. UVMMC provided additional expertise on medical fine details of PPE, as well as industry and logistical resources for both traditional and non-traditional sources and delivery options.
The resources were distributed for emergency use by healthcare and first responder personnel. N95 sterilizer machines were distributed to multiple hospitals and medical centers across the state to allow sterilization for multiple re-uses, a critical need when they were bought and a continuously valuable need until Covid is over.
The funding was awarded at 100% federal cost share through FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program.
