WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Edward J. Markey (D-Malden) and Senators John Kerry and Scott Brown today announced that fire departments across Massachusetts have received $1,972,528 for critically needed equipment and safety gear for first responders.

The funding, awarded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants, will increase the number of firefighters available to fire departments and communities and provide new equipment, safety gear, emergency vehicles, and training.

“Our firefighters are committed to ensuring the safety and security of our towns, and these new grants will enhance their ability to do so. These heroes deserve the best equipment and resources available to them so they can continue to assist residents in their time of need,” Rep. Markey said. “I commend the Town of Framingham for their persistence in obtaining these critical federal funds.”

“Our firefighters put their lives on the line for us day in and day out, and we have a responsibility to do whatever it takes to keep them safe on the job,” said Sen. Kerry.  “This investment will allow fire chiefs to take all possible measures to ensure the safety of our communities and firefighters each time the alarm bell goes off.  I’m proud to have worked with the Delegation to help make this possible.”

“Our firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to protect our safety, and we owe it to them to ensure they have the equipment and manpower they need,” said Sen. Brown.  “This funding is an important step toward ensuring they have the proper tools and resources, and I’m pleased our state is receiving these grants.”

Fire departments in the following towns have received funding:

Easthampton, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $28,500, Total Budget: $30,000

North Adams, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $152,858, Total Budget: $169,842

 
Amherst, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $55,852, Total Budget: $58,791

Adams, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $66,592, Total Budget: $70,096

 
Fitchburg, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $24,300, Total Budget: $27,000

New Bedford, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $137,135, Total Budget: $171,418

Newburyport, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $250,895, Total Budget: $264,100

Byfield, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $28,025, Total Budget: $29,500

Framingham, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $25,650, Total Budget: $27,000

Scituate, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $11,448, Total Budget: $12,050

 
Harwich, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $220,115, Total Budget: $231,700

Weymouth, Massachusetts

Federal Share: $971,158, Total Budget: $971,158

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