Sen. Robbins Urges Fire Departments/EMS to Seek Grants

Volunteer companies have until October 11 to apply for funds

State Senator Bob Robbins is urging local volunteer fire departments and emergency medical services (EMS) squads to apply for $50 million in grants from the Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Program.

"We are well aware of the financial and recruiting problems many of our volunteer departments face. Vehicles cost hundreds of thousands of dollars," Senator Robbins said. "Clothing and personal equipment can cost thousands of dollars and construction and maintenance of stations can be beyond the means of many departments. That's why this grant program is important for those organizations and the communities they serve."

The online application for the grants is available August 28 through October 11 at www.osfc.state.pa.us. This year, the Office of the State Fire Commissioner will administer two fiscal years of grants on one application. That means the maximum grant amounts -- $30,000 for fire departments and $20,000 for ambulance services -- are double the usual amounts. Grants may be used for construction or renovation of a fire company facility, purchase or repair of firefighting or rescue equipment, training or debt reduction.

Contact:

Michael Hengst
(717) 787-1322