Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $38,570 in federal funding for the Jamesport Fire Department. These federal dollars will be used by the Jamesport Fire Department to purchase essential air supply equipment. This funding is allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
“This is a great investment for Jamesport,” Senator Gillibrand said. “This federal investment will help improve the fire department’s equipment, help local firefighters do their work and keep families safe. I will continue working to ensure our first responders have the tools and resources they need to keep our communities safe.”
“We would like to thank Senator Gillibrand for her support for this much needed life supporting equipment for the Jamesport Fire District,” said John Andrejack, Chairman of the Board of the Jamesport Fire District. “This grant funds an air supply refilling system for sustained search, rescue or firefighting efforts. The citizens of Jamesport and the dedicated volunteer firefighters deserve this much needed equipment. The recent fire in Hampton Bays where firefighters fell through a collapsed floor and were trapped in a basement on fire demonstrates the need for a continual air supply which is paramount should a sustained search and rescue effort is necessary.”
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, established by DHS and FEMA, is part of an effort to increase the nation’s emergency response preparation. This program provides federal funding to first responder organizations for the acquisition of personal protective equipment, firefighting vehicles, and emergency response equipment. The funds will also help provide emergency response training to firefighters.