SCHUMER ANNOUNCES MORRIS FIRE DEPARTMENT IN OTSEGO COUNTY WILL RECEIVE OVER $260,000 IN FEDERAL FIRE GRANTS FOR VEHICLE ACQUISITION
Schumer says Federal Grant Will Help Morris Fire Department Pay for New Vehicles and Equipment During Difficult Fiscal Times
Schumer has Successfully Pushed for Additional Funding for Assistance to Fire Departments and First Responders
U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that the Morris Fire Department has received a federal grant totaling $261,250 as part of Round 1 of the FY09 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The funding will be used for vehicle acquisition.
"These grants ensure that the first responders in the Southern Tier will continue to have the basic resources required to do their jobs, improve safety and save lives," said Schumer. "Local fire departments and first responders have been strained from budget cuts and the rising costs of equipment while dealing with the everyday stress of their work. These funds are truly a life saving investment that will provide our local first responders with essential resources and support, so they can be better prepared for emergencies."
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. The Vehicle Acquisition Program Area Funds go to purchasing pumpers, brush trucks, tankers/tenders, rescue vehicles, ambulances, quints, aerials, foam units, and fireboats.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program assists local fire departments in programs and activities to 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.
Schumer added: "We can never truly repay our first responders for their heroic efforts and dedication to duty. However, we can ensure that they have the training, equipment and resources they need to do their job well. This federal money will help make sure that the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect us get the resources they need to keep themselves and our communities safe."
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.
