Coal Region News

Feb 13, 2024

HARRISBURG - Rep. Doyle Heffley (R-Carbon) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-Schuylkill/Carbon/Luzerne) have recently announced that several local fire and emergency medical service (EMS) companies have been awarded over $400,000 in grant funding.

"It's exciting to see these grant dollars given to our local fire and EMS companies that are on the frontline when an emergency strikes within our community," said Heffley. "Sen. Argall and I, along with our staff, are always willing to assist these companies with the necessary grant paperwork to ensure everything is completed on time."

The grant funding has been allocated to 26 organizations in the area. Some of the recipients include the Albrightsville Volunteer Fire Co., the American Fire Company 1, and the Aquashicola Volunteer Fire Company, among others. The amounts awarded range from $10,000 to $39,450.59.

"I'm thankful so many local fire and EMS companies were awarded these highly competitive funds," said Argall. "These grants are well-deserved and will help our brave first responders with their critically important and dangerous jobs."

The funding will be used for various purposes, including facility upgrades, equipment purchases, debt reduction, training and certification, education and public outreach, and recruitment and retention efforts. Fire companies were also allowed to apply for construction savings accounts for new facility construction.

The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, with the application process handled through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). The funding amounts are contingent on the recipients filing their grant agreements with OSFC.

This grant funding will greatly benefit the local fire and EMS companies, allowing them to enhance their capabilities and better serve the community in times of need. The support from Rep. Heffley and Sen. Argall demonstrates their commitment to the safety and well-being of their constituents.