July 25, 2007

Saratoga Springs, NY – Today, local Congresswoman Kirsten E. Gillibrand announced that two area fire departments have received federal funding this week from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program, contributing to the $485 million total aid distributed nationwide this year. The awards are administered by the Department’s Office of Grants and Training in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) in order to enhance response capacities and preparedness among the country’s emergency first responders.

Congresswoman Gillibrand is a strong supporter of New York First Responders. The first bill she co-sponsored in Congress was an act to implement several of the bipartisan 9/11 Commission’s recommendations. If enacted by the President, that legislation would provide increased funding for New York police and firefighters.

FHG annual awards to fire departments and EMS organizations are part of an effort by the Department of Homeland Security to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel with respect to fire and all other hazards.

Local grant recipients in the Program Area of Operations and Safety include:

Sidney Center Fire Department

Fairview Fire Department

Rep. Gillibrand stated today, "The hard work and dedication that our first responders display everyday is commendable. Everyday these men and women, serve and protect our families and neighborhoods. It is my hope this important funding enhances their ability to protect the families in our community and increase their safety in the field."

To date, a total of $2.9 billion has been provided in fire grants across the United States since 2001 when the program began. Funding is most commonly used for the purchasing of response equipment, personal protective equipment, and vehicles.

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