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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 10, 2008

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES BROOME COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT WILL RECEIVE OVER $120,000 FROM FEDERAL FIRE GRANT

Schumer Says Federal Grant Will Help Fire Department Pay For Critical Response Equipment and Improvements During Difficult Fiscal Times

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that the Choconut Center Fire Company fire department will receive a total of $121,301 in federal fire grant funding from the 2007 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  The grant is part of the 44^th round of DHS FY07 AFG program awards to fire departments throughout the country and will be used toward operations and safety.

"This funding will go a long way in supporting some of Broome’s bravest by ensuring that they are properly equipped and prepared to respond to any emergency." said Schumer. "Our nation's firefighters are truly America's heroes. It is essential that we help them to do their jobs safely and efficiently and one of the key ways to do this is to make sure that they have access to the resources they need to do their job well. This federal money will help make sure that firefighters in Broome County get the resources they need and have enough people on hand to keep our communities safe."

Schumer was among the first senators who recognized the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire departments to help defray the rising costs of equipment and fire prevention. Since its inception in 2001, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program has delivered over $178 million to New York's fire departments.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) assists local fire departments in programs and activities to improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations through specialized emergency training for response to situations like terrorist attacks; enhancement of emergency medical services programs; development of health and safety initiatives; establishment of fire education and prevention programs; creation of wellness and fitness programs; and equipment and facility upgrades. 

The Choconut Center Fire Company will receive money to improve operations and safety. The Operations and Firefighter Safety Program funds will go towards training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.

"These grants ensure that the firefighters in Broome County continue to have the basic resources they need to do their jobs, improve safety and save lives," added Schumer. "Local fire departments have been strained from budget cuts and rising costs of equipment.  These funds are truly a life saving investment that will provide local fire departments with essential resources and support, so they can be better prepared for emergencies."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security in cooperation with the Department's United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program's priorities and demonstrate financial need.   

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