SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - When disasters occur that require onsite medical assistance, first responders can become overwhelmed by the number of victims who need help.​

There is a group of medical and non-medical volunteers in Sacramento County who answer the call and assist the injured in their time of need. The Sacramento Medical Reserve Corps (SMRC) was created to strengthen public health, emergency response and community resiliency.

The group is looking for more volunteers dedicated to public service, along with assisting on large-scale disasters, public health emergencies, or extreme weather events. SMRC is also always ready to help in various capacities. SMRC staffs first aid stations at large community events, provides health screenings at health fairs, supports public health with flu clinics, and promotes emergency preparedness to service organizations and neighborhood groups. 

The volunteers of SMRC are critical to help keep Sacramento County protected and prepared for any situation. For one volunteer, that dedication has not gone unnoticed. SMRC member, Michael Joseph, was selected as one of three finalists for the ​2024 Outstanding Medical Reserve Corps Responder by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Medical Reserve Corps program office. The award will be announced at the 2024 National Medical Reserve Corps Conference in May.

SMRC is looking for others who want to join Michael in helping assist residents in our area. To become a member of SMRC, you can apply online. What if you don’t feel qualified or don’t have time, but still want to help? Donations are also accepted via the non-profit SMRC Foundation​. This foundation helps to offset the costs during emergency responses and assists in purchasing needed supplies.