Washington, DC – U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $421,097 in federal funding for three fire departments in the Capital Region. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG). Specifically, the Oppenheim Volunteer Fire Co. Inc. in Montgomery County will receive $82,600, to purchase backpacks, harnesses, face pieces, and two cylinders. The Johnsonville Fire District in Rensselaer County will receive $171,367 to purchase backpacks, harnesses, face pieces, and two cylinders. The Churchtown Fire Co. in Columbia County will receive $167,130 to purchase a complete set of turnout gear, personal safety, and rescue bailout system, harnesses, backpacks, face pieces, and two cylinders.
“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 federal funds will allow our first responders to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We need to do everything we can to protect our first responders when they risk their lives, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure they are given the support they deserve.”
“With the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Award received from FEMA, The Johnsonville Fire District will be able to replace all of our worn, outdated self-contained breathing apparatus, cylinders and face pieces,” said Jason M. Ham, 1st Assistant Chief, Johnsonville Fire District. “This equipment will directly impact our firefighters’ ability to safely perform their duties and protect the lives and property of the citizens of the Johnsonville Fire District and neighboring areas in Northern Rensselaer and Southern Washington Counties”
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.fema.gov/firegrants.