Nearly $6.5 million is coming to 38 fire departments across the state including three local departments.
US Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced that the funds are being administered through FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) programs.
“From Lockport to Lisle, brave firefighters risk their lives on the frontlines every day to protect our communities,” said Senator Schumer. “This whopping almost $6.5 million will help fire departments across Upstate NY recruit, hire, and train firefighters and provide them with the protective gear and supplies they need to keep themselves and their communities safe. I stood with firefighters across Upstate NY to push for the reauthorization of the AFG and SAFER programs because I know how important it is for our first responders to be prepared. I’m grateful that the AFG and SAFER programs are now continuing to deliver results for Upstate NY.”
The Scipio Volunteer Fire Company in Scipio Center, Varna Volunteer Fire Company in Ithaca, and Coopers Plains Long Acres in Coopers Plains are all receiving funding through the AFG program. Scipio is getting the largest amount of the three with $114,285.71. Next is Varna, receiving $76,188.57. Finally, Coopers Plains is taking home $56,571.42
“Every day, New York’s firefighters work tirelessly to defend our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This federal funding of over $5.6 million will help fire departments across Upstate New York recruit, hire, and train new personnel, as well as acquire the necessary equipment, training, and resources to respond to emergency situations. I’m proud to deliver this funding and will continue fighting for New York fire departments and working to ensure they are well-equipped for both their safety and that of our communities.”
