Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) today announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded a $173,628 federal grant to the Highlands Volunteer Fire Department to fund firefighter training and fitness programs and to purchase needed firefighting and firehouse equipment.

Pallone said that today's grant was awarded under the Federal Emergency Management Agency's "Assistance to Firefighter Grant Program," a nationwide federal grant program that provides support to local fire departments and municipalities to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations and conduct fire prevention and safety programs.

"This federal grant helps to ensure that the Highlands' volunteer firefighters are well equipped and fully prepared to protect and serve our community," Pallone said. "It alleviates some of the financial strain placed on volunteer departments to meet the increased demands of homeland security and helps to provide the department with the necessary tools and resources to protect the health and safety of our firefighters and community residents."