WASHINGTON -- Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) today announced a $47,025 federal Department of Homeland Security grant for the Chappaqua Fire Department.

“As we look to further strengthen our homeland security, we recognize that our local firefighters are a vital part of our first line of defense in almost all emergencies,” said Lowey, a member of both the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and the House Select Committee on Homeland Security.  “Equipping firefighters to meet increased security demands is an immense financial burden on our local governments. Communities like Chappaqua will no longer have to rely on raising property taxes to support their first responders.”

The United States Fire Administration (USFA) Grants to Firefighters Program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), awards grants directly to fire departments.  Funds may be used to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, emergency medical service programs, fire prevention and safety programs and to purchase new fire equipment. The agency plans to award a total of $750 million to local fire departments nationally through 2004.   

The Chappaqua Fire Department will receive $47,025 from the Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program, which provides funding for additional training, fitness equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities. This grant also provides funding for new firefighting equipment.

“Under the leadership of Fire Chief Al Seewaldt, Chappaqua has sought to provide its firefighters with the best training and equipment possible.  This grant will help bridge the homeland security funding gap and ensure that our community has the best protection possible,” Lowey said.  “First responders risk their lives to protect our communities.  The first step in recognizing their courage is giving them the resources they need to do their jobs well.  I will continue to advocate increased federal funds for training and equipment for local first responders and fight to secure homeland security funds through programs like USFA.”

Lowey is an original sponsor of legislation to continue and bolster the Grants to Firefighters Program through 2007.