As first reported last week on TLS Status, Hatzolah of Central Jersey announced the addition of six new service units to its growing team: Mordechai Kupferstein, Shimmy Weiss, Moshe Levovitz, Mordy Friedman, Mordy Tolwinski, and Chezky Herzog. These dedicated individuals will join the existing 32 service units that play a vital role in ensuring Hatzolah’s operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Hatzolah stated: With 31 vehicles in its fleet—17 ambulances, 8 paramedic vehicles, and 6 Shabbos vehicles—Hatzolah relies on its service units to keep its operations at peak performance. The six Shabbos vehicles are operated by designated non-Jewish drivers who assist Hatzolah members once emergency calls conclude, in accordance with halachic guidance.

The service units are tasked with maintaining the ambulances and equipment, ensuring everything from oxygen tanks and defibrillators to epi-pens and suctions are in perfect working order. They ensure that the ambulances are decontaminated, refueled, and restocked after each call. For paramedic vehicles, service units ensure that all Advanced Life Support (ALS) equipment—such as medication bags, IV pumps, and ventilators—are updated and functioning properly.

“Hatzolah’s service units are truly the unsung heroes of our organization,” said Executive Director Motty Twerski. “Without their tireless work behind the scenes, our emergency medical responders wouldn’t be able to do their jobs. They keep our vehicles and equipment in top shape, allowing us to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively.”

The service department is run by Yitzchok Stern and is also supported by Yudi Hess, who manages the two Hatzolah stockrooms located in the northern and southern regions of Lakewood. He ensures that there is always sufficient equipment and supplies on hand to meet Hatzolah’s needs.

“Our service units may not be in the spotlight with lights and sirens, but their work is crucial,” said a Hatzolah official. “They are the backbone of our organization. From maintaining ambulances to supporting our responders at emergency scenes, they ensure that we are always ready to save lives.”

Hatzolah would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous contributions of Shea Herczl, who formerly oversaw Hatzolah’s service department with unmatched dedication. Shea, who also volunteered as a Hatzolah EMT, played a key role in managing the fleet and maintaining Hatzolah’s vehicles for many years.