Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $68,620 in federal funding for the City of Cortland Fire Department. This funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Specifically, the City of Cortland Fire Department will use these federal funds to purchase a washer-extractor and dryer to clean turnout gear.
“This vital funding will provide our City of Cortland firefighters with the equipment necessary to safely do their jobs to the utmost of their ability,” said Senator Schumer. “Firefighters are our chief defense in protecting our communities. They put their lives on the line each day, which is why it is critical to provide them with the resources they need to continue their life-saving work.”
“Our first responders are on the frontlines during emergencies and this federal funding would allow the City of Cortland Fire Department to invest in critical protective equipment for first responders to carry out their lifesaving work more effectively in the community,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our firefighters should have the most up-to-date equipment when they respond to emergencies.”
“The grant will be used for the purchase of gear washing and drying appliances. With the proliferation of cancer amongst those who serve their communities, this is one of a variety of steps we can take to try to limit the toxins so prevalent in today’s furnishings. Additionally, we be able to purchase gear lockers to more appropriately store the turnout gear,” said Chief Charles Glover, Cortland FD.
The Cortland Fire Department consists of 35 career and approximately 35 volunteer firefighters in two fire stations. They cover emergencies within four square miles of City of Cortland, serving nearly 19,000 residents as well as 7,300 State University of NY students.
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.firegrantsupport.com/.