UNION COUNTY — First responders and emergency medical service capabilities got a boost in Union County thanks to the Wildhorse Foundation.

Union County Emergency Services received a $10,000 grant to provide advanced training for regional providers and purchase training supplies, according to Emergency Manager Nick Vora. The grant funded advanced trauma care training to four EMS providers, who also serve as medical staff on the Northeast Oregon Regional Swat Team.

“Union County Emergency Services extends its sincere appreciation to the Wildhorse Foundation for its generous support, which has directly contributed to improving emergency medical response capabilities in our region,” Vora said.

The four emergency medical personnel attended a multi-day trauma care course, which Vora said helped them gain valuable knowledge and skills. The grant funded the purchase of specialized supplies to help enhance the training, including wound care materials, simulated injuries and fake blood.

Vora said the supplies were utilized to create a realistic simulation exercise in December 2024 in partnership with the La Grande School District. This regional training included ambulance service responders from the La Grande Fire Department and volunteer units from Cove, Elgin, Imbler, North Powder and Union. Personnel from the La Grande Police Department, Union County Sheriff’s Office, Baker County Sheriff’s Office and Baker City Police Department also participated in the exercise.

“The NE Oregon Regional SWAT Team, which serves multiple counties, identified enhanced medical training as a priority,” Vora said. “This grant made it possible to improve training resources and ensure team members are better prepared for medical emergencies in tactical environments.”