Press Release of Senator Lugar $209,000 in Grants awarded to Loogootee Volunteer Fire Department Wednesday, July 2, 2008 U.S. Sen. Dick Lugar was notified that Loogootee Volunteer Fire Department will receive $209,000 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) program. This award falls under the fiscal year 2008 AFG program.   “The brave men and woman who serve as first responders are the backbone of our communities. It is vital that we ensure our fire departments and emergency medical services have the support, equipment and training they require,” Lugar said. “I encourage Hoosier fire departments to contact me to explore grant opportunities and ways which we may be helpful.”   The goal of the AFG is the enhancement of the first responders’ ability to protect health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel, with respect to fire-related hazards.   Fire departments with questions about the AFG 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 Assistance to Firefighter Grant Program, 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.