U.S. Senators Schumer and Gillibrand announce nearly $2.5 million in federal funding for fire departments across Upstate New York

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand have announced nearly $2.5 million in federal funding for fire departments across Upstate New York.

The funding will be used to provide protective gear, training, and supplies to emergency personnel across 34 fire departments.

This federal funding was administered through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)'s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG), which the senators fought hard to preserve and fund.

Fire departments locally to receive portions of this funding include: Boonville ($59,500), Inlet ($36,593.33), Kuyahoora Ambulance ($63,585.71), Lyons Falls ($10,000) and Western ($83,311.99).

“Every day, brave firefighters risk their lives on the frontlines to protect communities across Upstate NY, from Latham to Lockport,” said Senator Schumer.

“This nearly $2.5 million federal investment means better training, protective gear, and equipment that our firefighters need to keep themselves and New Yorkers safe. I stood with firefighters across Upstate New York to push for the reauthorization of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program and I’m grateful that, as a result, the AFG Program is continuing to deliver results.”

“New York firefighters work tirelessly to protect our communities,” said Senator Gillibrand.

“This federal funding will provide them with the necessary equipment, training, and resources to keep them safe as they respond to emergency situations. I will continue fighting for New York fire departments and working to ensure they are well-equipped for both their safety and that of our communities.”

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) is administered by FEMA. The competitive grants are awarded to the applicants that most closely meet the program’s requirements and demonstrate a commitment to its priorities.

The funding will be used to supplement the operations and safety of fire departments, including professional training, wellness programs, purchasing personal protective equipment, and upgrading facilities and supplies.

Image via Western Fire Department.