Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $4,167 in federal funding for the Fremont Volunteer Fire Department to purchase new fire hoses to replace outdated hoses from the 1970’s. This will allow them to respond to emergencies safely and more effectively. The funding was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.
“This federal funding is so important for the Fremont Volunteer Fire Department,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our firefighters put their lives on the line on behalf of our safety, and we need to make sure they have right tools on the job. This grant will help give them the resources they need so they can operate safely and efficiently, and keep our communities safe.”
“The money is very much appreciated and much needed,” Fremont Volunteer Fire Department Chief Gary Dye said. “It greatly helps small rural departments keep our taxes down and gives us the equipment we need to do our job.”
The Fremont Volunteer Fire Department is supported by 30 active, trained volunteers who serve a population of approximately 1,200 people.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, established by FEMA within the Department of Homeland Security, 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.