We’ve heard many positive comments over the years about the CARE/FH program, which started out as a volunteer program to assist law enforcement and the fire department during crisis situations.

More accurately, CARE volunteers would work with families and others who were directly impacted by a crisis. Someone who suddenly lost a spouse or a child in some type of accident, for example, or an elderly person left without a ride to the hospital to follow someone to the emergency room. First responders would contact CARE volunteers if they thought they were needed.

Last week we reported the program, which now includes a paid director, is in a transition of sorts and without an active director and not able to respond to calls.

Fire Chief Randy Roberts said he is working with the Town of Fountain Hills to develop a modified program, one in which it would be easier to maintain dedicated volunteers.

We’re hopeful such a transition doesn’t take too long and that the CARE/FH program can be implemented again sooner rather than later. Many Valley cities have their own crisis teams as part of emergency services, and we know that many Fountain Hills residents have benefitted from this program in the past.

Experiencing some kind of loss or tragedy is difficult in and of itself, but having trained volunteers on-site to assist with these types of situations can be a major relief for many distressed individuals. The CARE/FH program is too invaluable to lose altogether.