The Portersville Muddy Creek Volunteer EMS Rescue will be able to upgrade one of its vehicles thanks to a loan from the state.

The Fire Department has been approved for an $81,740 loan from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner to buy a new ambulance.

According to a news release from state Rep. Aaron Bernstine, R-8th, the funding will support the purchase of a Ford E350 Crestline CCL150 ambulance.

The new ambulance will replace an older vehicle, and will enhance the department’s emergency response capabilities.

The loan was awarded through the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Loan Program. The program provides low-interest loans, fixed at 2%, to fire and EMS organizations for the purpose of fixing, upgrading or purchasing new vehicles, equipment and facilities.

From July 2023 to July 2024, the loan program gave out 117 loans totaling just over $26 million. This included loans ranging from around $40,000 to nearly $400,000.