Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $30,210 in federal funding for Munnsville Volunteer Fire Department (FD). The money was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG). The funds will be used to purchase new fire suits to replace their current stock of 20 year-old turnout gear, which includes boots, pants, coats and helmets. According to the Munnsville FD, they estimate they will be able to purchase 12 new complete sets of gear.
“These much-needed federal funds will provide the assistance that Munnsville Volunteer Fire Department needs to replace critical equipment like their aging fire suits, which keep them safe in the heat of a firefight. First responders are our primary line of defense – they safeguard our residents and protect our property. It’s crucial that we provide support to our fire departments, especially our volunteer fire departments, to purchase the equipment they need to do their jobs to the best of their ability,” said Senator Schumer.
“The Munnsville Fire Department is staple in the community,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This investment will ensure that when our firefighters go into harm’s way, they have the right equipment to protect themselves while protecting our neighborhoods.”
“This funding is a real boost for our department,” said Todd Collins, Chief, Munnsville Fire Department. “Without funding from programs like AFG, it would be very difficult if not impossible for smaller communities and fire districts such as ours to provide the necessary gear and equipment to keep up with ever changing standards and requirements without putting an overwhelming burden on all of the local taxpayers who are already struggling to make ends meet.”
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/.