Through a successful partnership of several organizations, the City of Milpitas and the City of Palo Alto are helping to serve the emergency response needs of communities both regionally and internationally by whole-heartedly embracing the core value of neighbors-helping-neighbors. On November 20, the Milpitas City Council will have the opportunity to formally take action to donate a surplus fire engine to the state of Oaxaca, Mexico and a wildland fire engine to the Spring Valley Volunteer Fire Department through the Neighbors Abroad Foundation of Palo Alto.
The state of Oaxaca in southern Mexico is known for its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, rich with indigenous culture and tradition. The donated fire engine would help to improve emergency services in the communities of Oaxaca and the nearly 650,000 tourists that visit the state each year (according to the Adair César of the state’s tourism board).
Spring Valley Volunteer Fire Department (SVVFD) is a non-profit organization professionally staffed by volunteers since 1978. SVVFD provides fire safety and emergency medical services for residents, recreational enthusiasts, and property in the north-eastern foothills above Milpitas and San Jose. Through the donated wildland fire engine, SVVFD will be able to provide enhanced service, particularly to the hillside areas they serve on a daily basis.
Milpitas is proud to be a partner with these noble organizations, building bridges of community and providing the highest levels of service.
