Larson Announces $875,000 Grant to East Hartford Fire Department

Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) announced the East Hartford Fire Department was awarded $875,000 to support operations and safety as part of the federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. 

“When Democrats passed the American Rescue Plan, we delivered record relief to local communities to come out of this pandemic in a strong position, and also expanded critical programs that support our police and fire departments,” said Larson. “This $875,000 grant means necessary training to keep our firefighters up with the new challenges they may face, better equipment to ensure they are safe on the job, and a safer community for all residents. It was my honor to support the East Hartford Fire Department’s application.” 

“East Hartford is grateful to be the recipient of FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters’ Grant. These funds will allow the East Hartford Fire Department to purchase life-saving infrastructure and offer critical training to personnel to continue to provide the best emergency service that our community deserves. Thank you to Congressman Larson for his continued advocacy and support of our community,” said East Hartford Mayor Mike Walsh. 

“This much needed award provides the resources to allow the East Hartford Fire Department to continue to provide the excellent service we are known for, and that our residents deserve.  Specifically, this grant will allow the department to purchase much needed self-contained breathing apparatus, automated CPR compression devices, as well as staff training to improve our ability to protect critical infrastructure. In uncertain fiscal times, $875,000 can change the trajectory of a fire department and improve the quality of life for our residents and the dedicated firefighters who are tasked with service delivery. We are grateful for the unwavering support of Mayor Walsh, the East Hartford Town Council, and our congressional delegation,” said Fire Chief Kevin Munson. 

Rep. Larson helped author and pass the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, investing more than $45 million in local aid to the Town of East Hartford and expanding the AFG program to support more fire departments and public safety initiatives nationwide. Larson led a letter to FEMA supporting East Hartford’s application.