WASHINGTON, DC - United States Senators Elizabeth Warren and Edward J. Markey, and Representatives Richard Neal, Jim McGovern, Stephen Lynch and Bill Keating announced today that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded a total of $1,368,830 in grants to five Massachusetts fire departments through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The grants were awarded to the Northbridge Fire Department, Sturbridge Fire Department, Russell Fire Department, Braintree Fire Department, and Pembroke Fire Department.
"Firefighters put themselves in harm's way every day to protect our neighborhoods and keep our families safe" said Senator Warren. "These grants will help ensure they have the tools and training they need to do their jobs safely and effectively. Our fire chiefs and their departments deserve huge credit for their efforts to get these critical AFG awards, and for their tireless service to our communities."
"Our fire departments are a first line of defense, keeping communities safe and secure. These grants will help ensure our first responders have the vehicles, training and everyday tools to ensure the safety of our neighborhoods and loved ones," said Senator Markey.
"The professionalism and resolve of our first responders in Massachusetts is well known. Each day they put their lives at risk protecting their communities. These important grants will allow fire departments across the Commonwealth to be appropriately staffed and equipped so they can continue to keep their cities and towns safe," said Congressman Richard E. Neal.
"This is terrific news for Northbridge," Rep. McGovernsaid. "This large federal grant will allow Chief Nestor and his department to substantially upgrade their fleet. It's critical that we provide local first responders with the resources they need to protect our communities. The federal government must be a partner in that effort. I will continue to be a strong supporter of this Assistance to Firefighter Grant program, and I'll work to maintain its funding in Congress."
"I commend Chief Jim O'Brien and the entire Braintree Fire Department for their hard work in securing this fire grant," Congressman Stephen F. Lynch said. "Our firefighters are on the front lines every day and proper equipment is critical to doing their jobs safely and effectively. This federal funding will help in providing the Braintree Fire Department with the necessary tools to keep their community and themselves safe."
"It is always important to recognize the great responsibilities that our firefighters bear each and every day. I know I speak for many when I say that I am thankful for the work our firefighters do to keep us safe. This funding will help the Pembroke Fire Department in providing this vital service, and it is my honor to do what I can to help those who work so hard to protect us," said Congressman Keating.
The following grants were announced today:
The AFG program is administered by FEMA to ensure that local fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations have the resources and equipment they need to protect communities and emergency personnel from fires and other related hazards. More information on the AFG program is available here.
