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SARATOGA, NY—Congressman Paul D. Tonko announced today that the City of Saratoga Springs Fire Department is being awarded $240,140.90 in federal funding through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.  The funding will enable the Department to replace and update self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and face pieces.

"Every day, our brave Capital Region firefighters work tirelessly to keep our communities safe,” Congressman Tonko said.  “We must make certain that these courageous men and women, who put everything on the line for our families, have the training, equipment, and manpower they need to protect themselves as they fight to protect all of us.  I’m proud to deliver this critical funding to update equipment for the Saratoga Springs Fire Department, and I give my heartfelt thanks to our firefighters for their continued commitment and sacrifice in the face of danger."

"Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus is the most critical component for all firefighting operations.  This grant award will allow the Saratoga Springs Fire Department to serve the community better and ensure our firefighters' safety.  I would personally like to thank our federal government representatives and the Department of Homeland Security- FEMA for granting us this award," said City of Saratoga Springs Fire Chief Joseph Dolan.

Each year, Congressman Tonko and his staff assist numerous local fire departments in preparing their applications for these critical grants.  Today’s announcement marks the fourth round of the competitive FY 2021 AFG announcements, with Round 1 delivering a total of $1,119,577 for the Capital Region for the Troy Fire Department the Schenectady Fire Department. Tonko submitted a letter successfully requesting consideration of funds for the Troy Fire Department.

The FY 2021 AFG Program will award an unprecedented $414 million in competitive grants to fire departments, non-affiliated EMS organizations, and state fire training academies.  This includes an additional $100 million for the AFG Program provided through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

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