U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder today announced $23,571 in federal funding for the Point Breeze Fire Department. The funding was awarded through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. Specifically, these funds will be used to purchase ten sets of new, protective turnout gear.
“This funding will help keep our local heroes safe as they continue to bravely serve the Breezy Point community,” said Senator Schumer. “These men and women put their lives on the line each and every day. The least we can do is ensure that they are equipped with top-notch gear. That’s why I’m committed to fighting for the resources our firefighters need to answer residents’ calls for help as safely and effectively as possible.”
“These federal funds will allow the Point Breeze Fire Department to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs effectively and stay safe while protecting our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We need to do everything we can to protect the men and women who risk their lives every day in the face of danger, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure that our fire departments are well-funded and equipped.”
“The brave volunteers of the Point Breeze Fire Department put themselves in danger to help others and it is great to announce that they have been awarded this federal funding, which will go towards new protective gear. Thank you to Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for securing this federal grant and for continuing to fight for our local heroes,” said Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder.
“The funds secured under the AFG Grant will be used by Point Breeze Volunteer Fire Department to purchase 10 sets of NFIP Compliant Turnout Gear. This grant money will go a long way to ensure our current and future volunteer firefighters are well protected. We especially wish to thank our Senators as well as Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder, who have always been there for us, for their assistance in helping Point Breeze secure this much needed grant,” said Kurt Bruder, Commissioner of the Point Breeze Volunteer Fire Department.
AFG funding 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. Funding is allocated to strengthen the overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards. More information on the AFG Program can be accessed at http://www.fema.gov/firegrants.