Can haz AED?

December 7, 2010 6:26 AM

How do you really get a grant to purchase an automated external defibrillator (AED)?

A non-profit I'm working with would like one, but we can't afford thousands of dollars. I had heard that there are grant programs available, but casual Googling reveals a lot of really sketchy websites that appear to want to sell you an AED, and offer a "grant." In other words, they raise the price of the unit so that you still pay full price, but you feel like you got a deal.

So, are there any reputable organizations or government entities that could help us out?

posted by fvox13 to Health & Fitness (5 answers total)

I would be doubtful if there's federal or state money for AEDs simply because there is no quantifiable return on investment on those. Instead, I would seek out local foundations that support community efforts and see if you can write an application to be considered for the funding for the AED. In my area, the community foundations, hospital foundations and foundations associated with utilities are good bets for this type of request, especially if it is going to be available for public use. The Foundation Center library maintains an online database of foundations that report on what type of requests they consider and you can sort by geographical locations to find one in your area. There's a small fee to subscribe, but your local library may have a subscription you can use at no charge. Best of luck to you.
posted by FergieBelle at 6:38 AM on December 7, 2010

Start by checking with the Red Cross. MrR got one for our church, and I know he started there. We wound up getting one through them for less than $2K, iirc. Also, check with local first response teams (ambulance, 911, firefighters, etc).
posted by jlkr at 6:59 AM on December 7, 2010

Here is some good information.

A large regional hospital would also be a good place to look, there is usually a nurse that directs community cardiac education. Be prepared to make a convincing argument. I'll assume you've already taken BLS - become an instructor.
posted by rotifer at 7:43 AM on December 7, 2010

Talk to your local fire department. Someone there will likely know about whether there is state money available to you.

There is federal money for AEDs but it is reserved for rural areas (search grant # 93.259 on cfda.gov).
posted by skyl1n3 at 7:47 AM on December 7, 2010

They're on eBay. I saw one for $400.
posted by scblackman at 8:32 AM on December 7, 2010