Schumer Has Continually Pushed for Funding to Assist Fire Departments and First Responders

Press Release

Today, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer announced that the Woodlawn Volunteer Fire Company receive a grant totaling $69,497 in Round 6 of the FY12 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. AFG awards are administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and are designed to help firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. The Woodlawn Fire Company will use this funding to purchase new minitor pagers, radios, turnout gear, air bottles, and a new hose.

"With these funds, Woodlawn firefighters will have the proper equipment to safely respond to emergencies in the region," said Schumer. "This investment will help ensure that our local heroes have the equipment that will help them work as efficiently and effectively as possible to protect area residents."

Schumer was a sponsor of the legislation that led to the creation of this funding program for local governments and fire departments to help defray the rising costs of equipment and fire prevention.

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.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are 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. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at http://www.firegrantsupport.com/ .

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