Boot Scootin’ Gala to Benefit GEMS Life-Saving Services

Greenwich Emergency Medical Service, Inc. (GEMS) is hosting its annual event, Boot Scootin’ Gala, a Square Dance fundraiser, on Friday, March 1, 2019 at Belle Haven Country Club.

“For the past two years, GEMS has hosted events that have sold out and raised much needed funds to replace or refurbish an ambulance. We are looking forward to this year’s event because not only will it support the life-saving work we do for the Town of Greenwich, but everyone will be able to grab a partner and “boot scoot” the night away,” said Jennifer A. Baldock, Chairwoman of the Board.

GEMS is expecting more than 100 guests donning barn attire who will enjoy square dancing and traditional BBQ food to support GEMS. The evening is being made possible by generous event sponsors including Greenwich Hospital, William Hood & Company, Eastford Fire & Rescue Sales, Val’s Putnam Wines & Liquors, Meridian Benefits Consulting, and EG Films.

During the evening, guests will be led by a Square Dance caller, play “Heads or Tails” to win gift certificates worth more than $1,200 to local restaurants, and raise their paddle to support GEMS’ mission. Tickets at $225 per person are still available for purchase at gems2019.givesmart.com.

GEMS began operations in 1986 as an independent, non-profit organization.  It has received ongoing statewide recognition for its demanding professional standards, a system design that assures rapid responses, innovative technology, excellent training opportunities, and comprehensive community outreach programs.

GEMS is not a department or arm of Town government, but rather an independent provider of emergency medical services pursuant to a contract with the Town. GEMS pays for all of its capital needs through fundraising efforts, thus saving the Town nearly $10 million since its inception more than 30 years ago.

About Greenwich Emergency Medical Service (GEMS)

The mission of Greenwich Emergency Medical Service (GEMS) is to provide the highest level of pre-hospital emergency medical care to reduce the risk of death and disability due to trauma and sudden illness.

GEMS operates 24/7 out of four stations with a fleet of seven state-of-the-art ambulances. From May 2017 through April 2018, GEMS responded to 6,109 calls and transported 4,199 patients, arriving, on average, within less than five minutes to all emergency calls.