Press Release of Senator Lugar Indiana fire departments receive $318,000 in grants Wednesday, November 19, 2008 U.S Sen. Dick Lugar’s office was notified today that three Indiana fire departments will receive $318,429 in funds from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.   AFG funds are utilized by the nation’s firefighters to increase the effectiveness of firefighting and emergency response operations, and to improve firefighter health and safety programs.   In Fiscal Year 2008 AFG was administered by FEMA’s Grant Programs Directorate in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. The AFG Program provides grants on a competitive basis to rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.   Fire departments with questions about the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program may reach the fire grants help desk toll free at 1-866-274-0960 or firegrants@dhs.gov.  For the most current information regarding the AFGP, visit www.firegrantsupport.com.   Questions regarding the application process may be directed to Andrew Mills, Grants Coordinator, by phone at 202-224-4814 or by email at grants@lugar.senate.gov.   The following departments received grants:   Recipient County Program Area Amount Wright Township Volunteer Fire Department Greene Vehicle Acquisition $190,000 Wright Township Volunteer Fire Department Greene Operations & Safety $57,274 Oaktown Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. Knox Operations & Safety $32,300 Bentonville Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. Fayette Operations & Safety $38,855 Total: $ 318,429   ###