U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $216,377 in federal funding for Chester Fire Department and New Hampton Fire Department. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Specifically, Chester Fire Department will receive $52,272 to purchase a new exhaust vent system for the firehouse, and New Hampton Fire Department will receive $164,105 to purchase new SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) or Scott packs.
“It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the tools they need to do their jobs effectively,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our primary line of defense for safety and security—it is critical that we do all we can to ensure that they are well equipped and prepared to take on any emergency.”
“These funds will allow our first responders to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs safely,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We need to do everything we can to protect our first responders and ensure they have the tools they need to keep themselves and our communities safe, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure they are given the support they deserve.”
“We are thankful that Senators Schumer and Gillibrand have secured funding for the Chester Fire District. With these funds, we will be able to continue keeping our community safe, while making sure that our firefighters have the resources that they need,” said Brendan Medicine, Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners.
“The New Hampton Fire District is grateful that Senators Schumer and Gillibrand have worked to acquire vital funding for the operations and safety of our district. Additional resources will aid our foremost priority of maintaining a safe community, which will allow us to continue protecting and supporting those that we serve,” said New Hampton Fire Department 1st Assistant Chief, Terence Reynolds.
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 athttp://www.fema.gov/firegrants.