Grants, NM — In a heartwarming display of community support, Legacy Church Grants campus has donated a state-of-theart thermal imaging camera to Grants Fire & Rescue. The presentation ceremony was held on August 13 at Grants Fire Station 1, where Fire Chief Mike Maes gratefully accepted the critical new piece of equipment. The event, marked by camaraderie and celebration, also featured a brats and hot dogs lunch organized by the fire department.
This new thermal imaging camera is a significant upgrade for the fire department’s toolkit. Designed to enhance visibility in smoke-filled environments, the camera will enable firefighters to locate victims and identify hot spots with greater precision. Chief Mike Maes expressed his gratitude, noting, “This gift is much needed and allows us to allocate resources to other vital needs.” The department’s existing unit, which is two years old, has been instrumental in numerous emergencies, including a call early on August 13.
The new camera offers enhanced capabilities and will be a valuable asset for investigations. It can locate individuals trapped in burning structures and detect lingering hot spots after a fire is thought to be extinguished. “With this donation, we can now equip both the engine and ladder truck,” Maes said.
James Duck from Legacy Church Grants and Shane Rabindranath from Steelbridge, a ministry of Legacy Church in Albuquerque, were present for the presentation. Duck and Rabindranath shared their commitment to supporting local emergency services. “With our new campus in Grants, it’s the perfect opportunity for us to bless the local Fire and Rescue team,” Duck remarked. “We are thrilled to contribute to their efforts in keeping the community safe.”
The ceremony was attended by Grants Mayor Erick Garcia and City Manager Andrew Valencia, who offered their thanks for the generous contribution. Legacy Church, headquartered in Albuquerque with eight campuses statewide, has a strong history of supporting fire and rescue departments across New Mexico. This donation continues the church’s tradition of community service and its dedication to making a positive impact wherever they are present.
Following the presentation, Grants Fire & Rescue hosted a community lunch featuring brats and hot dogs, fostering a sense of unity among department members, church representatives, and local residents. The event highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in strengthening community resilience and supporting emergency services.
For more information on Legacy Church’s initiatives or to learn how you can support local fire and rescue efforts, visit their website or contact Grants Fire and Rescue. The department and the community extend their heartfelt thanks to Legacy Church for their generous contribution and ongoing support.