Congressman Chris Collins Helps Secure $231,858 Grant for the Blasdell Fire Department

Congressman Chris Collins (NY-27) today announced $231,858 in federal funding for the Blasdell Fire Department. The grant was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG), which is designed to help first responders improve their capability to respond to fires and emergencies of all types.

“Our local heroes need the proper resources to do their jobs and protect our communities,” said Congressman Chris Collins. “Many fire companies and emergency medical service providers are unable to purchase necessary equipment upgrades due to financial limitations. This funding will help create more efficient and effective first responders, and I am honored to help the Blasdell Fire Department secure this vital funding.”

“The Village of Blasdell Fire Department is grateful to have been selected for an Assistance to Firefighters Grant award from FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security,” said Michael Petrie, Mayor of Blasdell. “With the help of FEMA and the persistent support of Congressman Chris Collins, Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, when the alarm rings, our first responders will be ready and fully equipped to answer the call and fulfill our duty to protect the lives of our citizens and minimize property damage. Blasdell firefighters go into harm’s way to keep all of us safe. This grant will provide our first responders the equipment they need to do their job and protect themselves.

“I would especially like to thank Congressman Collins and his staff for their annual hosting of a grant workshop, where FEMA officials offer guidance to applicants before the application deadline. Chris has always made himself available to Blasdell and we remain grateful for his support.”

This federal grant will allow the Blasdell Fire Department to acquire 25 complete sets of turnout gear and 25 complete sets of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA’s) to replace obsolete gear that is 16 and 14 years old, respectively. A SCBA is a device worn by firefighters and rescue workers to provide breathable air in dangerous environments.

The AFG Program provides direct funding assistance to first-responder organizations to obtain much needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles and training.

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