U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $24,909 in federal funding for the East Branch Fire Department in Delaware County. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) and is designed to help firefighters obtain critical equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. The East Branch Fire Department will use the funds to purchase new turnout gear, which includes a coat, pants, boots, gloves, helmet and hood for interior firefighting, for each firefighter.
“These much-needed federal funds will help the East Branch Fire Department purchase the new turnout gear that will keep firefighters safe and make them more effective,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our primary line of defense – they safeguard our residents and protect our property. It’s crucial that we provide them with the cutting-edge equipment what they need to do their jobs and save lives.”
“Every day our first responders put their lives on the line to protect our families and keep our communities safe,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Ensuring they have the right equipment to protect themselves while serving our community is critical. That’s why this new gear for East Branch fire fighters is so important.”
“The East Branch Fire Department is very happy to be receiving the US Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighters Grant Award,” said Janet Hadden, Secretary and Treasurer for the East Brach Fire District Commissioners. “These much needed funds will greatly help our dedicated firefighters and staff protect the safety and wellbeing of our community and respond to emergency situations. We are thankful for the support of Senator Gillibrand, Senator Schumer and Congressman Gibson.”
The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department’s United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program’s priorities and demonstrate financial need. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.fema.gov/firegrants.