Our Story
In 1967, the Town of Newburgh faced a critical need for emergency medical services when St. Luke’s Hospital ceased its ambulance service. Residents came together to form the Volunteer Ambulance Corps, officially incorporating in October of that year. The first vehicle, a 1965 Cadillac, was purchased for $5,000, and emergency calls were dispatched from the homes of dedicated Corps members, available 24/7. On February 1, 1968, the Corps began its journey, responding to 550 calls in its inaugural year.
Fast forward to 2021, and the Town of Newburgh Emergency Medical Services (TONEMS) responded to an impressive 3,822 calls, showcasing its unwavering commitment to the community. In 1991, TONEMS achieved New York State Certification, ensuring that an Emergency Medical Technician is always present on ambulances. The following year, it became the second volunteer ambulance corps in Orange County to equip each ambulance with Automatic External Defibrillators, enhancing cardiac emergency response.
In 2018, TONEMS evolved into a hybrid EMS agency, combining the efforts of both volunteer and paid members to meet the growing demand for emergency services. Today, the organization boasts a dedicated team of nearly 70 members, with 47 volunteers actively serving the community.