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AMSTERDAM, NY—Congressman Paul D. Tonko announced today that Guilderland Fire District is being awarded $159,587.62 for emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment and training. Tonko submitted a letter of support requesting consideration of funds for the grant, which was provided through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) FY2019 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.

“Even as this historic pandemic rages on, our firefighters continue to work tirelessly on the front lines to protect us,” Congressman Tonko said. “These courageous men and women put everything on the line for us, and we need to make sure they have the safety equipment they need to protect themselves as they fight to protect all of us. My heartfelt thanks to our firefighters for their continued commitment and sacrifice in the face of danger. The critical need for resources for our essential workers is one of the many reasons why Congress must move forward with our Heroes Act or some other means of funding to prevent major layoffs and cuts by local governments on the brink.”

“This award will provide funding for self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that were long overdue for replacement,” said Brian Forte, District Administrator for Guilderland Fire Department. “This grant is substantial and will save the taxpayers of our district and our department money, which is especially important during these difficult times. We’re ecstatic to hear the news. The funding will be put to great use to protect our firefighters and our community.”

This is round 4 of the competitive FY 2019 AFG announcements. The FY 2019 AFG Program will award approximately $315 million in competitive grants to fire departments, non-affiliated EMS organizations, and state fire training academies.

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