Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $101,856 in federal funding for the City of Beacon Fire Department to purchase new turnout gear for their firefighters. The funding was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.
In September, Senator Gillibrand wrote to FEMA Administrator W. Craig Fugate to encourage FEMA to support the City of Beacon Fire Department’s request for federal funding.
“This federal funding is so important for the City of Beacon 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 the right tools and equipment for the job. This grant will help give them the proper, up-to-date gear so they can respond to emergencies safely and more efficiently.”
“I want to thank Senator Gillibrand for helping the City of Beacon Fire Department receive this federal grant,” Beacon Mayor Randy Casale said. “The funds will be used to purchase much needed equipment and gear that will help protect the safety of our firefighters. In these difficult economic times, the federal funds are greatly appreciated.”
The City of Beacon Fire Department serves a population of approximately 25,000 people. They will use the federal funding to purchase new turnout gear to replace currently outdated gear. The City of Beacon Fire Department responds to approximately 1,800 calls annually.
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.
Senator Gillibrand’s letter to FEMA is attached.