The Initial Life Support Federation offers a special program to help place automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in houses of worship and thus help provide parishioners and congregants with protection from premature cardiac death. Through the Foundation's program, churches, synagogues, and mosques are eligible to purchase  brand new AED devices priced under $1,000 and can obtain assistance in setting up and operating an AED program.
Establishing an AED program in a house of worship is an essential component of being ready for emergencies. But the availability of AED technology is only a part of effective emergency medical preparedness. Having and properly using an AED requires a concerted effort of planning, training, and ongoing support from qualified individuals.

The Initial Life Support Federation provides CPR/AED instructors, parish nurses, and other health and safety professionals with a variety of free services and resources to help make onsite emergency medical preparedness more effective and AEDs more affordable. Originally established in 2002 as the AED Instructor Foundation, ILSF has help to place over 2500 deeply discounted AEDs in houses of worship, small businesses and other community settings.

Several different AED models – ZOLL, Philips, HeartSine and Defibtech – are available at a substantial discount via the ILSF’s special program.  All AEDs are brand new and come complete with AED pads and batteries.  Optional accessories such as wall mounted cabinets and carrying cases are also available at an additional cost..
Houses of worship interested in obtaining a low cost AED and establishing an AED program ned to:

1. Have a member of your congregation (a certified CPR/AED instructor, parish nurse, EMS or health care professional) agree to be the AED program manager/coordinator and have him/her complete a brief application as an ILSF Affiliate. (It’s free of charge to do so.)
2. The designated AED program manager can download as needed, AED program operation and management tools from the ILSF website. (An AED Program Guide, sample AED Plan and other invaluable resources are available free of charge.).
3. Once approved as an Affiliate, this person can request and complete a special AED purchase voucher. One voucher per AED needed is required.)
4. Obtain a required physician prescription. (if needed/depending on AED model selected.)
5. Send the completed voucher and AED program checklist (this assures ILSF that there will be an operating AED program --- not just an AED “hanging on the wall”) with full payment to the Initial Life Support Federation. (We're sorry, purchase orders and credit cards cannot be accepted.)
6. Institute AED program planning and oversight, including notifying local EMS.
7. Conduct needed CPR/AED training for an appropriate number of staff and/or congregants.

We sincerely commend you for your commitment to the health and well being of your parishioners, visitors and church staff. If you have questions or need assistance feel free to contact us by email at director@ilsf.info or call 610-566-2824.