U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $73,334 in federal funding for the Bellerose Terrace Fire Department to purchase 10 new sets of turnout gear and eight new self-contained breathing apparatus to replace older and worn models. The money was allocated through the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG).
“It is critical that we provide our local fire departments—like the Bellerose Terrace Fire Department—with the most up-to-date equipment they need to keep our citizens safe and do their jobs effectively,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders are our local heroes and our primary line of defense—it is crucial we provide them with the resources and cutting-edge tools they need to continue their important work of saving lives.”
“These federal funds will allow first responders at the Bellerose Terrace Fire Department to purchase the up-to-date equipment they need to do their jobs safely,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Every day our first responders risk their lives to protect us, and I will always fight in the Senate to make sure our local fire departments have the support they need to keep their communities safe.”
Jerry Keating, Chief of Department, said “Our department will now, with these federal dollars, be able to purchase new turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatuses to ensure that our volunteer firefighters are fully protected while keeping our community safe. The AFG program is vital to the health of local fire departments, and I thank Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for being longtime supporters of the program.”
The Bellerose Terrace Fire Department includes 28 volunteer firefighters and operates out of a single station with two engines and a utility van.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department’s United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program’s priorities and demonstrate financial need. Funding is allocated to strengthen emergency preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards.
More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be accessed at www.fema.gov/firegrants.
