Lake Chelan Health & Wellness Foundation donates $11,400 to support EMS facility

CHELAN — The Lake Chelan Health & Wellness Foundation has contributed $11,400 toward exercise equipment for the new Emergency Medical Services building, following a successful fundraising effort earlier this year.

During the foundation’s Heart Health luncheon in February, more than $5,000 was raised for the project. At its January meeting, the foundation’s board voted to match those funds, bringing the total donation to $11,400.

Board President Phyllis Gleasman presented the check to Director of EMS Ray Eickmeyer in front of the construction site of the new facility.

“When the building is complete, we will be there for the ribbon cutting and a tour of the exercise room, staff housing and the educational rooms,” said Vita Monteleone, director of community relations for the Lake Chelan Health & Wellness Foundation.

Lake Chelan Health EMS has served the Lake Chelan Valley for 50 years, operating around the clock since its establishment in 1975. Over that time, the service has worked out of multiple temporary locations, most recently a modular building that previously housed administrative offices for the former hospital, along with a leased garage for ambulances.

Plans for a permanent EMS facility advanced in September 2025, when Lake Chelan Health secured $12 million in state funding over two legislative sessions to construct a new station and garage. Groundbreaking took place on the new hospital campus at 110 S. Apple Blossom Drive.

The new facility will include an employee gym, shared kitchen and break areas, dedicated sleep rooms, and expanded conference and training spaces for both staff and community use. A separate seven-bay garage will house ambulances and other emergency vehicles.

The Lake Chelan Health & Wellness Foundation supports healthcare improvements in the region by funding medical equipment, education and wellness programs. Leaders say the organization aims to strengthen community health by expanding access to resources and building partnerships with donors.