East Lansdowne and Lower Chichester receive federal grants

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Patrick Meehan (PA-07) today announced two local fire departments received federal funding from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. The East Lansdowne Fire Company received a $51,680 grant, and the Lower Chichester Fire Company received a grant for $23,873.

“Our first responders need the best possible life-saving equipment and training,” said Meehan. “I’m very pleased that two of our local fire companies will get the resources they need to continue providing outstanding emergency assistance in our communities.”

East Lansdowne Fire Company Chief Thomas Johnson indicated they plan to purchase new hoses for the department’s two vehicles and replace the supply line, with the funding they received.

The Lower Chichester Fire Company plans to purchase 18 portable and 3 mobile radios, according to Chief Dave Durbano.

The AFG Program, part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) provides grants to first-responder organizations to purchase equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles and training.

These are the latest grants awarded to the 7^th Congressional District for fiscal year 2011. The Good Fellowship Club of Chester County, located in West Chester, received $17,163 earlier this year to purchase EMS equipment.

In August 2011, Meehan held a grant seminar to assist local fire companies in applying for the 2011 AFG Program. Fire Companies and EMS providers interested in learning more about the AFG Program should visithttp://www.fema.gov/firegrants/.

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