Larson Announces Westfield Fire Department to Receive Federal Fire Grant
Larson Announces Westfield Fire Department to Receive Federal Fire Grant
Hartford, CT- Today, U.S. Congressman John B. Larson announced that the Westfield Fire Department of Middletown will receive $74,518 from the Assistance to Firefighters program. Administered by the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA, the grant awarded to Westfield was in the operations and safety program area.
Congressman Larson said, "We must provide our first responders with the necessary equipment, technology, and support to safely do their jobs and protect our communities. Sunday's unfortunate explosion at Kleen Energy Power plant is an example of the huge challenges they must be prepared for at any given time. The first responders in Middletown and across the region did a great job in a short amount of time to respond to this unfortunate tragedy. I commend them."
Congressman Larson has long supported the Assistance to Fire Fighters grant program and encourages all fire departments in his district to apply for funding. Congressman Larson's Office contacted all 37 fire chiefs in the district to provide information on the program's application process and to offer his office's federal grants coordinator as a resource to answer any questions.
"During these tough economic times, municipalities are facing tough budget decisions that may prevent them from adequately supporting their public safety agencies," Congressman Larson added. "This grant program alleviates the financial burden placed on towns and allows them to ensure the safety of their residents as well as the men and women who protect them."
Last year, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program distributed approximately $1.7 million dollars in funding to fire departments and EMS organizations in the First Congressional District.
Background on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program
Administered by the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA), the Assistance to Firefighters provides grants and funding for training and equipment for our nation's fire departments and first responders.
This year, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program will award approximately $565 million directly to fire departments and EMS organizations to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the public and emergency response personnel with respect to fire and all other hazards.