VMAT awarded $200,000 to develop state-level program

Shaumburg, Ill.

- The American Veterinary Medical Foundation will award $200,000 to the AVMA Veterinary Medical Assistance Team program for disaster preparedness and response at the state level.

In April, the VMAT program received approval from the AVMA Executive Board to focus on disaster preparedness and response activities in the states, instead of at the national level.

"I am thrilled that the VMAT program is moving forward with a focus on state support during disasters," said Dr. Anna M. van Heeckeren, chair of the AVMF Grants/Awards Committee.

"The AVMF has been a steadfast supporter of the VMAT program since inception and we are proud to support them with the $200,000 grant," she says. "They have been a valuable asset at the national level, and there is no reason to doubt the positive impact they will have at the state level."

The grant will pay for administration, training, equipment and anticipated deployments for a year. It was made possible through the Animal Disaster Relief and Response Fund.

To learn more or to donate, visit www.avmf.org.