Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $47,044 in federal funding for Green Island Fire Department. 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 hose to replace its existing stock, which is over 15 years old and beginning to show signs of decay. The funds will also be used to convert the connectors on their hydrant system to make them more interoperable.
“These much-needed federal funds will provide the assistance that Green Island Fire Department needs to replace critical equipment like their aging fire hose, and make improvement to their existing network of fire hydrants. First responders are our primary line of defense – they safeguard our residents and protect our property. It’s crucial that we provide our fire departments support to purchase the equipment they need to do their jobs to the best of their ability,” said Senator Schumer.
“This is an important investment for Green Island,” said Senator Gillibrand. “When our first responders go into harm’s way, it’s our job to make sure they have the right equipment to save lives. This funding will provide critical, up-to-date hoses to help Green Island firefighters keep our families safe.”
With this federal funding, the Department will replace its existing stock of aged supply and attack hose. The Department’s current cache of hose is well over fifteen years old, and they have continually removed hose from service due to leaks and ruptures. Additionally, the Department will convert its existing hydrant system to a standard “Storz” connection. Doing so will eliminate the need for heavy cumbersome connections and specialized adapters, making the entire fire hydrant network more interoperable.
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/.
Senator Schumer’s letter in support of Green Island FD’s application is attached.