October 29, 2025 Chester, NJ – For 80 years, the Chester First Aid Squad (CFAS) has proudly served our community as an all-volunteer, no-fee emergency medical service, neighbors helping neighbors without ever sending a bill.
Earlier this year, the Chester Township Council approached CFAS about changing our long-standing model from municipally funded to a billing model. This proposal would transition CFAS into a new agency that would begin billing residents’ health insurance for EMS services.
We want our community to understand the potential impact of this change, not only on you, but on the dedicated volunteers who have kept this organization strong for eight decades.
While it was noted at the Oct 21st Township Council meeting that there is a decline in volunteer rescue squads statewide, we want to make one thing clear: CFAS is not in decline. We are a vibrant, growing, and committed team of volunteer EMTs, EMRs, and drivers who train rigorously, respond compassionately, and take immense pride in serving Chester, free of charge.
Under the proposed model, CFAS would become a new entity called Black River EMS. This would require major changes to how we operate, limiting our trained drivers and EMRs from running calls, since two EMTs would be required per response. That shift could create staffing challenges and undermine the system that has worked so well for generations.
As volunteers, billing for emergency care is not part of our mission or our values. We believe our current volunteer model works well and does not need to be “fixed.” However, we remain open to continued discussions with Township officials to find the best path forward. Above all, our commitment is to you, the residents of Chester, and to provide the compassionate, skilled emergency care our community has come to rely on for 80 years.
We will continue to keep the community informed as this conversation evolves.
Thank you for your trust, support, and belief in volunteer EMS.