SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE OVER $44K IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR THE WESTONS MILLS FIRE DISTRICT IN CATTARAUGUS COUNTY

Funding Will Be Used to Replace Outdated Equipment

Washington, DC – U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $44,062 in federal funding for the Westons Mills Fire District in Cattaraugus County. The funding was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The Westons Mills Fire District will use the funding to purchase new lifting air bags, rescue struts, and battery-operated rescue tools. The fire district’s current equipment is 30 years old and outdated.

“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. This funding will do just that, by allowing the brave firefighters of the Westons Mills Fire District to replace old and outdated rescue equipment.”

“This federal funding will allow first responders in the Westons Mills Fire District to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs safely,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our first responders risk their lives to protect us, and I will always fight to make sure that our local fire departments have the support they need to keep their communities safe.”

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) 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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