“This round of fire grants provides some $260,000 for firefighters to help them continue to protect rural communities in our district,” Ross said.  “I am particularly pleased to see that the Frenchport Volunteer Fire Department in Camden will receive the funding necessary for a new firefighting vehicle – an essential but expensive part of protecting the area they serve. This is great news for rural residents in Ouachita County, and all areas receiving funding in this round of grants.” 

The Firefighting Vehicles Acquisition Program includes funding for pumpers, brush trucks, tankers, rescue, ambulances, quints, aerials, foam units, and fireboats.  The following departments have been awarded grants for a Firefighting Vehicle: 

·        Frenchport Volunteer Fire Department, Camden - $81,000 

The Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program includes training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.  The following departments have been awarded grants for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety: 

·        Sims Volunteer Fire Department, Sims - $80,744

·        Saratoga Volunteer Fire Department, Saratoga - $4,512

·        Golden City Volunteer Fire Department, Booneville - $7,799

·        White Hall Fire Department, White Hall - $45,882

·        Louann Volunteer Fire Department, Louann - $39,600

This is the 13th round of notifications for the 2003 program.  Further notifications are expected on a weekly basis for the next few months.