WHITESBURG, KY – The ARH Foundation for Healthier Communities has awarded a $5,000 Community Grant to Pine Mountain Search & Rescue to strengthen emergency response readiness across Letcher County and surrounding communities.

Serving over 21,000 residents, Pine Mountain Search and Rescue operates in some of the most rugged and remote terrain in Eastern Kentucky. Formed by local woodsmen, law enforcement officers, and first responders, the all-volunteer organization provides specialized search and rescue operations for individuals who become lost, injured, or stranded in wilderness areas. The team also plays a critical role during natural disasters, assisting with debris removal, supply distribution, shelter support, and emergency transportation when traditional response resources are limited or delayed.

This grant will allow for important equipment upgrades that enhance mission-critical communication, vehicle visibility, transportation reliability, and responder safety. Funding will provide updated radios, a 360-degree lighting system for the team’s primary response vehicle, replacement tires for response vehicles and the supply trailer, and updated technical rescue equipment including helmets, boots, gloves, and certified rescue belts necessary for high-risk operations such as establishing rappel lines. Together, these investments directly strengthen operational readiness and ensure the team can continue delivering safe and effective emergency response services.

“In a region where geography can slow traditional response times, Pine Mountain Search & Rescue is an essential partner. Providing them with reliable equipment strengthens our entire emergency response network and ultimately improves safety outcomes for the people we serve,” said Jamie Easterling, CEO of Whitesburg ARH.

The community grant will serve as the sole source of support for these upgrades. Equipment will be purchased and deployed within three to six months, with an urgent goal of full operational readiness within three months in preparation for the upcoming severe weather season.

“This grant reflects our commitment to investing in organizations that strengthen health and safety across our service region,” said Whittney Allen, Director of Foundation Marketing and Communications for the ARH Foundation for Healthier Communities. “Reliable communication, safe transportation, and proper protective equipment are foundational for effective emergency operations. Supporting these essentials helps ensure communities have access to timely, coordinated response when it matters most.”

The ARH Foundation for Healthier Communities is committed to furthering healthcare, education, and community involvement across Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia, with 100% of every dollar donated staying in the communities served. To learn more or to support initiatives like this, visit https://www.ARH.org/donate.

Attached photo:
Paul Miles, Emergency Management Director; Terry Adams, Judge Executive; Kuade Mccall, Emergency Management; Jessica Burke, ARH CNO; Jamie Easterling, ARH CEO; and Kelvin Eldridge, ARH Materials Manager.