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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 17, 2008
SCHUMER ANNOUNCES OVER $30,000 FEDERAL FIRE GRANT COMING TO ODESSA FIRE DEPARTMENT
Over $500,000 Will Go to 8 Emergency Response Programs in NYS as Part of U.S. Department Of Homeland Security's Firefighters Grants Program
Schumer Has Continually Pushed for Funding to Assist Fire Departments and First Responders
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer announced that the Odessa Fire Department in Schuyler County will receive a $33,250 grant from the 2008 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This grant is designed to strengthen the response programs of fire departments throughout the country. This grant will be used towards the acquisition of much-needed equipment. “Grants like these allow our firefighters to be at their best at all times by providing them with the equipment they need to deal with any problem that comes their way,” said Schumer. “I will continue to fight for these funds so that our firemen have access to the resources they need to keep our communities safe from harm." Schumer was among the first senators who recognized the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire departments to help defray the rising costs of equipment and fire prevention. Since 2004, with the Fiscal Year 2008 awards, AFG has provided a total of almost $2.75 billion to first-responder organizations to purchase response equipment, personal protective equipment, and vehicles The $33,250 grant for the Odessa Fire Department is part of eight grants awarded to fire departments across New York State. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFGP) provides funding to local fire departments to help them improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations through specialized emergency training for response to situations like terrorist attacks; enhancement of emergency medical services programs; development of health and safety initiatives; establishment of fire education and prevention programs; creation of wellness and fitness programs; and equipment and facility upgrades. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security 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/ .
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