ST. JOSEPH COUNTY ― Medical equipment is a costly investment for any hospital. It is even more difficult for first responders to afford what they need, especially when budgets are tight.

For five years, Heart Reach Michiana has been helping to save lives across Michiana. They have been distributing Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s) for free.

“They're expensive, and almost all of the places, they don't have the money to buy these devices,” Dr. Walter Halloran, from Heart Reach Michiana said. “That’s where the community can come in and provide those for places in need.

On Tuesday, they handed out 42 more to first responders, school, churches and social service agencies around the community.

“We have a waiting list of around 150 devices being requested by over 60 or 70 organizations,” Halloran said. “So each year we buy what we can, with the money we've raised, and then we start a new year.”

Organizations around the area ― whether police, first responders, and even schools ― say they could make the difference in an emergency situation and greatly appreciate receiving them.

“The patrol officers are typically the first ones to arrive at a scene, so this will give our officers the ability to save lives,” said Sgt. Bill Redman of the St Joseph County Police.

“In the event of a cardiac arrest, it will save lives and buy us that time we need until the EMS arrives,” said Christine Kanczvzewski, nurse at St. Joseph High School. “And with the limited budget, this has been such a gift.”

Each AED costs about $3,000. Heart Reach Michiana gets a discount because it buys so many at once.