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ALBANY, NY – Congressman Paul D. Tonko today announced the awarding of $21,838.09 in federal funding for Glenville Fire District #2 (Alplaus Fire Department) from the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.  Tonko submitted a letter in support of the Department’s request for funds, which will go toward the purchase of equipment that will help protect their members from the dangers of fire and related hazards.

“Our Capital Region’s firefighters work on the front lines every day, putting their lives on the line to protect our communities and our families,” Congressman Tonko said.  “It is critical that we do our part by making certain that our local fire departments have the training, equipment, and manpower necessary to do their jobs safely and efficiently.  I’m proud to deliver this funding that will secure needed equipment upgrades for the Alplaus Fire Department, and I’ll never stop fighting to make sure our first responders have the resources they need.”

“The officers and commissioners of Glenville Fire District #2 appreciate Congressman Tonko’s efforts in securing this Assistance to Firefighters Grant,” said Chief Andrew Coppola.  “This equipment will help in our mission to keep the community safe.”

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 ninth round of the competitive FY 2021 AFG announcements, with previous rounds delivering a total of $1,543,057.94 for fire departments in Albany, Troy, Schenectady, Saratoga Springs, and North Greenbush.  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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