U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $16,191 in federal funding for the Village of Endicott in Broome County. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program and will be used to purchase new equipment, including a gear washer-extractor, a gear dryer, and a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) mask cleaner.
“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. This funding for new equipment will ensure that the health and safety of Endicott’s courageous firefighters are protected while responding to any and all emergencies.”
“Every day, our first responders risk their lives to protect their communities, exposing themselves to dangerous chemicals that can harm their health. With this federal funding, the Endicott Fire Department will be able to purchase a new washer, extractor, and cleaner that will help keep their equipment clean from possible contamination,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I will always fight in the Senate to make sure our local fire departments have the resources they need to do their jobs safely.”
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program is 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 found here.