SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $39,000 IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR THE ELMIRA FIRE DEPARTMENT IN CHEMUNG COUNTY
Federal Funding For Elmira Fire Department Will Be Used To Purchase Protective Equipment
U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $39,150 in federal funding for the Elmira Fire Department. The money was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The Elmira Fire Department will use this federal investment to outfit active members with new protective gear.
"These funds will provide essential upgrades for the Elmira Fire Department," said Senator Schumer. "Firefighters are our first line of defense during an emergency. It is crucial that they have the equipment and protection they need when they go out and risk their lives for their friends and neighbors. I am pleased these funds will help keep our local heroes safe."
“The Elmira Fire Department will use this funding to invest in critical equipment that will help keep firefighters safe during emergency situations and be able to carry out their lifesaving work more effectively,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our first responders are the ones on the frontlines during emergencies and should have the most up-to-date equipment as they do their job protecting our community.”
“We are extremely pleased with the 2014 Assistance to Firefighters Grant awarded to the Elmira Fire Department,” said Patrick Bermingham, Chief of Elmira Fire Department. “This grant will allow for the purchase of personal protective equipment, i.e. fire coats, pants, helmets, etc. to replace worn turn-out gear. This will enable us to increase firefighter safety by providing firefighters with enhanced protection during fire suppression, hazardous materials and rescue operations.”
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. Funding is allocated to strengthen emergency preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.firegrantsupport.com/.
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