Washington, DC -- Congressman John J. Duncan, Jr. (R-Tenn.) announced today that the Tellico Plains Volunteer Fire Department will be awarded a grant from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program later this week.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program offers one-year grants to assist fire departments and emergency medical service organizations meet the needs of local communities. Since 2001, the program has helped first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources necessary to protect the public and emergency personnel.
In fiscal year 2007, the program will award about $490 million in grants to fire departments and EMS organizations across the Country. The Tellico Plains Volunteer Fire Department’s grant is in the amount of $87,343.
The Tellico Plains Volunteer Fire Department can use the grant for eligible activities in the Operations and Firefighter Safety Program, one of two areas under the AFG Program. Operations and Firefighter Safety Program funding can go toward training, equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.
“It is vital that our Nation’s first responders have access to the best equipment and training available. I am very pleased that the Tellico Plains Volunteer Fire Department, whose volunteers give their time and risk their lives to serve our communities, will benefit from this federal funding,” said Duncan.
