October 4, 2006

Norwich Township Fire Department to Receive Funding from Department of Homeland Security

$55,706 to be used toward wellness of Norwich Firefighters

COLUMBUS – Congresswoman Deborah Pryce (R-Columbus) announced today the awarding of a federal grant to help Norwich Township ensure the health and wellness of its firefighters. The grant, in the amount of $55,706, is provided by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as part of its FY 2006 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG).

Congresswoman Pryce applauded the Department’s decision. “I thank the Department of Homeland Security for its investment in protecting the safety and lives of the brave men and women of the Norwich Township Fire Department.”

Norwich Township Fire Department sought funding under the DHS Wellness and Fitness Program to better analyze the data of the Department’s physical fitness program. In doing so, the Department will be able to more effectively reduce both illnesses and injuries suffered by its personnel.

The purpose of the AFG program is to award grants directly to fire departments and emergency medical service ( EMS) organizations to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel, with respect to fire and fire related hazards. Using a competitive process and fire service subject matter experts, DHS awards grants to applicants whose requests best address the priorities of the AFG program. In Fiscal Year 2006, the DHS Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program will award approximately $485 million to fire departments and EMS organizations around the nation.