BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Scott Brown, along with Congressmen Jim McGovern, John Olver, Edward J. Markey, and Richard E. Neal, today announced that fire departments across Massachusetts have received $955,216 for improved operations and safety for first responders.

The funding, awarded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG), will help provide new equipment, safety gear, emergency vehicles, and training.

“Our firefighters put their lives on the line day in and day out as they bravely respond to emergencies,” said Rep. Markey. “This vital federal funding answers their 911 call for the tools and training they need to continue providing the best protection for the citizens of our cities and towns. These heroes deserve the best resources available to ensure the safety and security of our Commonwealth residents.”

“We have a sacred obligation to give firefighters the training and equipment they need to stay safe on the job. It’s the least we can do for public servants who risk their lives to keep our families safe every time that bell rings,” said Sen. Kerry.

“Firefighters risk their lives day in and day out protecting the citizens of Massachusetts, and we must ensure they have the necessary equipment,” said Sen. Brown. “I’m grateful for their service and pleased they are receiving these resources to support their efforts.”

“I am pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has recognized the great benefit these funds will provide to the communities of Lee, Russell, Pittsfield and Goshen. These funds provide our firefighters with the resources that are necessary to continue providing the highest level of service to our communities,” said Rep. Olver.

“I’m very pleased with this funding,” said Rep. McGovern.  “I know that this federal assistance has been a high priority for the Southborough and Somerset Fire Departments.  I believe that homeland security starts with hometown security.  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.”

“As a longtime supporter of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, I am very pleased that the Town of Warren was awarded federal assistance in the latest round of this very competitive process. The brave firefighters in the department deserve the best equipment and resources to help keep their community safe. Today’s announcement will help the town accomplish that objective,” said Rep. Neal.

The following fire departments have received funding:

 

Lee Fire Department

Federal Share: $100,249, Total Budget: $105,525

 

Russell Fire Department

Federal Share: $11,400, Total Budget: $12,000

 

Southborough Fire Department

Federal Share: $85,500, Total Budget: $90,000

 

Warren Fire Department

Federal Share: $106,400, Total Budget: 112,000

 

Pittsfield Fire Department

Federal Share: $59,328, Total Budget: $65,920

 

Wakefield Fire Department

Federal Share: $89,100, Total Budget: $99,000

 

Winchester Fire Department

Federal Share: $44,802, Total Budget: $49,780

 

Chelsea Fire Department

Federal Share: $75,600, Total Budget: $84,000

 

Goshen Fire Department

Federal Share: $14,871, Total Budget: $15,653

 

Somerset Fire Department

Federal Share: $33,843, Total Budget: $35,624

 

Marblehead Fire Department

Federal Share: $152,721, Total Budget: $169,690

 

Nahant Fire Department

Federal Share: $91,186, Total Budget: $95,985

 

Stoneham Fire Department

Federal Share: $58,500, Total Budget: $65,000

 

Walpole Fire Department

Federal Share: $31,716, Total Budget: $35,240

 

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