Congressman Paul Tonko announced today that the federal government has awarded grants totaling over $160,000 to two agencies in the 21st Congressional District through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program.  The Town of Glen Volunteer Fire Department and the Clinton Heights Fire Department will be receiving grants to help these organizations enhance emergency services to residents and improve safety for first responders.

“The Assistance to Firefighters Grants will be put to immediate use in the 21st District, providing essential emergency equipment and improving services to residents,” said Congressman Tonko. “These funds are especially crucial in light of the economic downturn, where local governments are facing budgetary gaps across the state. We are always grateful for how hard these men and women work to keep us safe.  I am so pleased they have gotten the national recognition and assistance they deserve for their noble efforts.  Congratulations to both departments on these awards.”

Here are the details on the awards:

• Town of Glen Volunteer Fire Department: $73,340 to be used for the purchase of 11 firefighter airpacks, and a new equipment system to re-fill air bottles in their department and neighboring departments.
• Clinton Heights Fire Department: $87,081 to be used for improved operations and safety equipment.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grants program was created in 2001 to help firefighters and emergency medical organizations purchase critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources necessary to protect the public and first responders.  It is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. The program requires that each department provide a match of between 5% to 10% of the total project cost.

For more information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grants click here.