New EMS Refreshment Station Welcomes First Responders at SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale
Craig Jesiolowski and Christian Falconer, ED Manager, at the new refreshment station.
SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale has taken a meaningful step to support and appreciate the community’s first responders by introducing a new EMS Refreshment Center. Designed to serve EMS, fire and police personnel, the station is conveniently located at the Emergency entrance and offers refreshments to those who are often the first on the scene in emergencies.
“We are so pleased to offer this to our healthcare partners in the community who are the first responders to many community emergencies before they ever enter our ER doors,” said SIH Vice President and Administrator of SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Craig Jesiolowski.
In a letter to first responders, Jesiolowski acknowledged the critical role of first responders.
“EMS, fire and police departments are the ‘first on the scene’ responders keeping our community safe. As an extension of our appreciation, we have created a ‘Refreshment Station’ just for you. Please take a moment to enjoy a cup of coffee or grab a quick bite on the go,” the letter reads. The station includes a Keurig coffee maker, sandwiches from the cafeteria, and packaged snacks, all courtesy of hospital administration.
The initiative has also been warmly received by medical professionals.
“It is remarkable for healthcare leadership to support those individuals who are boots on ground 24/7 in the under-appreciated first responder environment,” said Dr. Joseph Haake, emergency physician and medical director for Southern Illinois Regional EMS.
Feedback from community leaders further underscores the impact of this gesture. Carbondale Police Chief and Interim City Manager Stan Reno expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you very much for this thoughtful and generous gesture for first responders.”