Patchogue, NY – U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced today $74,914 in federal funding for the Patchogue Fire Department Ambulance Company to purchase the most-up-to-date biohazard protection and radio systems. The money was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Administration’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant.
“This investment will be a big help to the Patchogue Fire Department Ambulance Company, better equipping our first responders to quickly and safely respond to emergencies,” said Senator Schumer. “These funds will also guarantee that our local heroes will be able to purchase this equipment and improve their level of service to the community.”
“This funding will help equip the Patchogue Fire Department Ambulance Company with the tools necessary to save lives,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I will continue working to ensure that Long Island’s first responders and community residents have the resources they need to keep our neighborhoods safe.”
“We are deeply appreciative to the AFG program. It will enable us to equip our dedicated EMS staff and volunteers with the most up to date biohazard Protection,” said Patchogue Fire Department Ambulance Director Paul Pearo. “It will also support much needed upgrades to our radio systems, providing for greater regional interoperability, federal compliance and operational effectiveness. We respond to over 2,500 calls per year and this grant will greatly benefit our staff and volunteers as well as the community we serve.”
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, established by DHS and FEMA, is part of an effort to increase the nation’s emergency response preparation. This program provides federal funding to first responder organizations for the acquisition of personal protective equipment, firefighting vehicles, and emergency response equipment. The funds also help provide emergency response trainings.