Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Arlen Specter and Bob Casey announced today that the Department of Homeland Security has approved funding for several fire companies in Central Pennsylvania.
“These fire prevention and safety programs will help protect the citizens of Pennsylvania and the firefighters who risk their lives every day,” Senator Specter said. “I commend the Department of Homeland Security for recognizing this priority and for its continued support of our nation’s fire services.”
“Firefighters are invaluable members of the community and they work tirelessly to ensure our safety. It is critical that we do everything in our power to provide them with the necessary tools and resources to perform their job,” said Senator Casey. “This money will provide valuable assistance to the firefighters of Pennsylvania.”
The funding is contained in Round 10 of the competitive Fiscal Year 2009 Fire Grants Award announcements. These awards are administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.
The AFG programs are designed to enhance first responders’ ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel. In Fiscal Year 2009, the AFG program awarded approximately $565 million directly to fire departments and EMS organizations for operations and safety programs, as well as vehicle acquisition.
Funding has been approved for the following companies in Central Pennsylvania:
Franklin County:
• $19,741 for South Mountain Volunteer Fire Department
Juniata County:
• $89,772 for Delaware Township Fire Company
Lancaster County:
• $54,150 for East Petersburg Fire Company #1
• $39,900 for Maytown East Donegal Township Fire Department
Lebanon County:
• $20,900 for Neptune Fire Company #1
Schuylkill County:
• $44,840 for American Hose Company
• $32,918 for Ravine Fire Company No. 1
More information on the AFG program can be found at:
http://www.firegrantsupport.com/ or call the toll free help line at: 866-274-0960
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