SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $35K IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR ONEIDA FIRE DEPARTMENT IN MADISON COUNTY
Funding Will Be Used To Purchase New Compressor To Fill Air Packs In Breathing Equipment For Firefighters
U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $35,715 in federal funding for the Oneida Fire Department in Madison County. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The Oneida Fire Department will use the funding to purchase new air compressors for Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) masks and face pieces that are worn by firefighters to help breathe clean air.
“It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the equipment they need to stay safe on the job,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our first line of defense for safety and security. By allowing the courageous firefighters of the Oneida Fire Department to purchase new air compressors for their breathing equipment, this grant will help ensure their health and safety in any emergency.”
“With this federal investment, the Oneida Fire Department will be able to purchase new equipment that will help them best prepare for emergencies in our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “We need to do everything we can to protect the first responders 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 funded and equipped.”
“The AFG program is a great asset to local communities. We are excited to be able to update our equipment,” said Dennis Fields Jr., Oneida Fire Chief.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program 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. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be found here.
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