FEMA To Give $73,350 Grant To Winchester Fire Unit 

Release Date: June 24, 2003
Release Number: R4-03-79

Atlanta, GA -- The Winchester Fire Department Tuesday will receive formal notification of a $73,350 fire grant to enhance fire operations and firefighter safety with purchase of turn-out suits, breathing apparatus and an air compressor.

Paul Fay, Region IV director of response and recovery for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will make the presentation to department officials.

The Department of Homeland Security, of which FEMA now is a part, has been highlighting the importance of first responders through its Assistance to Firefighters Grant program. A number of grants already have been given throughout the nation to better equip and increase operational capabilities for firefighting and other emergency units.

"These grants serve as a great example of how Homeland Security is assisting Tennessee and other states by putting key resources directly into neighborhoods and communities to better secure our nation," added Fay. "It is the prompt and experienced efforts of local first responders and FEMA that give comfort and aid to victims of disasters. The efforts of firefighters and rescue squads have earned our respects and thanks."

In 2001, the Winchester Public Safety Department received a $27,000 fire grant for its fire prevention program. Last year, the Capitol Hill Volunteer Fire Department in Winchester received a grant of $17,640 for fire operations and firefighter Safety.

Tennessee, in the past two weeks, has received more than $648,000 in 50 fire grants. In 2001, such grants totaled more than $2.4 million in Tennessee and were in excess of $11.4 million last year.

This year's $750 million grants program represents a marked increase from the $360 million announced in last year's grants.

Among those participating in the program are: Winchester Mayor Richard Stewart, Public Safety Director Dennis Young, Franklin County Emergency Management Director Eric Trussell, Winchester Fire Department Captain Wayne Morris and City Commissioner William Womack.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 24-Jun-2003 09:10:30