Washington, DC – U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $153,333.33 in federal funding for the Union Vale Fire District in Dutchess County. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) and will specifically be used to replace the department’s soon-to-expire self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) packs with 23 new sets. SCBA packs allow firefighters to breathe in burning buildings when extinguishing fires and encountering hazardous materials.
“It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the equipment they need to stay safe on the job,” said Senator Schumer. “Our first responders in Dutchess County are our local heroes and our first line of defense for safety and security. By allowing the courageous firefighters of the Union Vale Fire District to purchase new breathing equipment, this grant will help ensure their health and safety in any emergency.”
“I am proud to announce this funding for the Union Vale Fire District, which will be able to replace old SCBA packs, so that our firefighters can breathe safely while they protect our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Our hardworking firefighters are the first line of defense when responding to local emergencies, and I will do everything I can in the Senate to ensure that our first responders have the resources they need.”
“Union Vale Fire District is very appreciative of the FEMA Grant Award that is providing us with our soon-to-expire SCBA packs. These packs are essential to allow our volunteer fire fighters to enter burning buildings. We thank Senator Gillibrand and Senator Schumer for their continued support of our community,” said John Welsh, Fire Commissioner, Union Vale Fire District.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s 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. The funding will be used to support the operations and safety of fire departments, which could include providing professional training, purchasing wellness programs equipment and personal protective equipment, and upgrading facilities and supplies. More information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program can be found here.