U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern announces $263,010 grant for Rutland Fire Department

United States Representative Jim McGovern announced a $263,010 grant from the Department of Homeland Security's FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to the Rutland Fire Department today.

Washington, DC, March 5, 2013
United States Representative Jim McGovern announced a $263,010 grant from the Department of Homeland Security's FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to the Rutland Fire Department today.

Congressman Jim McGovern announces $263,010 grant for Rutland Fire Department

United States Representative Jim McGovern announced a $263,010 grant from the Department of Homeland Security's FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to the Rutland Fire Department today. The grant will be used to purchase 2 rapid intervention packs to help support a trapped firefighter, 24 portable radios, 24 self contained breathing apparatus, and a diesel fume exhaust evacuation system for the Rutland Fire Station.

"This federal grant will greatly benefit Rutland," Rep. McGovern said. "Local first responders deserve with the resources they need to safely protect our communities. I believe that homeland security begins with hometown security, and I will continue to strongly support funding of this Assistance to Firefighters Grant program in Congress."

FEMA Regional Fire Program Specialist David Parr commented, "Town and fire department officials in Rutland should be commended for submitting a successful application in a very competitive grant program. Out of 11,600 grant applications nationwide, only 600 including Rutland have been awarded to date."

Rutland Chief Weber commented, "The town of Rutland Fire Department is very grateful to Congressman Jim McGovern for his continued support of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant, FEMA, and the Fire Service in general. The AFG Grant will make Rutland a safer community to work and live in. I would also like to recognize Firefighter Paramedic Mike Gleason and Captain Seth Knipe on writing a successful grant."

"Rutland has repeatedly demonstrated their commitment to the highest level of public safety," said State Senator Stephen M. Brewer. "This funding will allow them to have the equipment necessary to best serve the residents of the community."

The Assistance for Firefighters Grant Program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States. Since 2001, the AFG Program has provided approximately $5.25 billion in grants to first-responder organizations to obtain much-needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles, and training.

"My sincere congratulations to the Chief and Rutland Fire Department for their hard work on a daily basis and for securing this grant. The grant was especially helpful in these difficult times when every penny counts," stated Representative Kimberly Ferguson (R-Holden).