SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $334,000 IN FEDERAL FUNDS FOR EIGHT FIRE DEPARTMENTS IN WESTERN NEW YORK

Federal Funding Will Be Used to Purchase New Equipment For Firefighters

Buffalo, NY – U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $334,502 in federal funding for eight fire departments in Western New York. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program to purchase new equipment for firefighters.

“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 fire departments to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs safely,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Every day our first responders risk their lives to protect us, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure our local fire departments have the support they need to do their jobs effectively.”

“This federal funding will lessen the burden on local taxpayers and will go a long way towards protecting our community and firefighters,” said Paul Gurnett, Fire Chief of Wolcottsville. Volunteer Fire Company.”

“We appreciate that the FEMA Grants are still ongoing,” said Michael Soper, Fire Chief at Limestone Volunteer Fire Department. “Without them small departments like ours, with small tax bases, couldn't afford the equipment that we apply for. Like many departments we have an aging membership and aging equipment. This new electric stretcher will help our volunteers load and unload patients safely.  I would also like to thank Senators Gillibrand and Schumer for their continued support.”

Breakdown of funding included below.

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.

###