(Washington, D.C.)–Today, Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-RI) and Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) announced that, working in conjunction with the Department of Justice (DOJ), the state’s Congressional delegation has successfully secured an expected allocation of $450,000 in relief funding in the wake of the Station Nightclub fire in West Warwick.

 Before the total amount of funding can be finalized, the DOJ must coordinate with state officials.  However, Kennedy and Langevin have been informed that the funding level has been estimated at $450,000.

The funding is anticipated to be prescribed to assist the Rhode Island State Police, the state crime lab, and other local communities in abating the extreme financial hardships they have had to endure as a result of tragedy that has claimed 100 lives.

“The tragedy at the Station Nightclub was easily one of the worst suffered by Rhode Islanders in our collective memory,” said Kennedy.  “We continue to mourn for those who lost their lives and pray for the full recovery all those who were injured.  Our delegation has worked hard to identify, explore, and secure funding from any potential federal government source that would assist our state as we continue to feel the effects of the fire.  I am glad that our efforts have resulted in some much needed funding that will help our state greatly.  This would not have been possible if it weren't for the hard work and diligence of members in both chambers of Congress.  I would like to especially thank Senator Reed and Congressman Langevin for their efforts.”

Added Langevin, “I am pleased that the federal government has finally recognized the horrific February fire as an event that devastated the state and left our first responders with minimal resources.  Thanks to a unified effort on behalf of the entire Rhode Island Congressional delegation, we were able to move yet another step closer towards providing some type of federal financial relief as a result of the greatest state tragedy in recent history.  We continue to mourn our neighbor's losses and keep their families in our thoughts and prayers.”

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