UNDER PRESSURE

Johnston Fire Department & Senior Center team up to keep seniors healthy

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A new collaborative effort between the Johnston Fire Department and Johnston Senior Center will help the town’s seniors stay healthy.

The initial event took place last Thursday morning at the entrance to the JSC’s spacious multi-purpose room for a program that will go a long way toward keeping Johnston’s senior citizens on top of their blood pressure.

The Johnston Fire Department Blood Pressure Screening Event is the brainchild of new Johnston Fire Chief David Iannuccilli and Battalion Chief-EMS-Local 1950 President Keith Calci. It is free and will be held every second Thursday of the month from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 pm. at the JSC.

“The Johnston Fire Department has returned in full force to the Johnston Senior Center!” exclaimed JSC executive Director Richard J. DelFino Jr. “Members of the JFD will provide Blood pressure screening, oxygen level testing, and provide seniors with a registration card to keep handy should they need emergency service as well as a free emergency refrigerator card.”

Last Thursday morning a steady stream of seniors took advantage of the unique offering and at certain times there was only a brief wait to see Battalion Chief Tom McCormick and Rescue Lt. Joe Pingitore, who welcomed seniors with a smile and were ready to answer all their questions.

“We are thrilled with the response today,” DelFino emphasized. “The members of the JFD are great. More importantly, they are patient and willing to help. I am looking forward to continued collaboration with them.”

DelFIno also related: “Chief Iannuccilli and I are on the same page as to how we assist this population creating the safest and healthiest opportunities possible. It’s great to have the JFD back here at the Center.”

When asked if he plans to collaborate with other town entities, DelFino quickly replied: “Y-E-S!”

“Our goal is to make the JSC a second home for our seniors,” he went on. “We have plans for more collaborative efforts with entities that will make the JSC the hub for many activities and groups in Johnston.”

He then announced the April Blood Pressure Screening will be held on Thursday, April 13, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and urged people to call the JSC at 401-944-3343 or JFD at 401-351-1600 for more information.

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