FAIRFIELD, Maine – A considerable donation promises to dramatically improve emergency medical services in Fairfield, Maine.Al King III, a resident of Westport, Connecticut, has gifted over $360,000 to the town to fund the purchase of a new ambulance.
The contribution, accepted by the Fairfield Town Council earlier this summer, addresses a critical need for enhanced emergency response capabilities. Currently, Fairfield does not own an ambulance and relies on the private Delta EMS service for patient transport.While the local fire-rescue department provides on-scene emergency medical care, they operate from a modified pick-up truck, limiting their ability to provide thorough, weather-protected treatment and transport. This donation arrives at a notably crucial time, as the closure of Northern Light inland Hospital in Waterville has increased demand on Delta’s services.
“I think some of it was a little bit of shock and awe, and also astounding gratitude,” said Fairfield Town Manager Michelle Flewelling. “When you think about the capacity of the ability to have someone outside be able to come inside where it’s not raining on them, snowing on them, wind, what have you,” she explained, highlighting the meaningful enhancement a dedicated ambulance will provide.
King,whose family has deep roots in Fairfield,made the donation in memory of his parents,who benefited from the care provided by the town’s fire-rescue department.He established the Al King Family Foundation to facilitate the gift. “The thought is, it’s a big world and if everybody can help out in their home town, in the area where they grew up, that woudl make for a better world,” King stated.
While King has previously supported charitable causes, this is his largest single donation to date.He emphasized his admiration for the dedication of first responders. “It’s a great group and you know they’re highly committed and you keep hearing and seeing great things in all that they’re going through and I think we all know the police and the fire are two professions that are probably not as appreciated as they should be,” King added.
King also expressed his fondness for the people of Maine. “I travel the country and I wont to tell you, Mainers set the standard for the nicest people on earth,” he commented.
The Fairfield Town Council must still formally approve the ambulance purchase, a vote anticipated in September. The donation will cover the full cost of the vehicle,ensuring Fairfield’s residents have access to improved emergency medical transport. Delta EMS currently serves a wide geographic area, and the addition of a town-owned ambulance will reduce response times and enhance the quality of care for Fairfield residents.
Copyright 2025 WABI. All rights reserved.
