Three area volunteer fire departments shared in more than $2 million in federal grants announced last week by Vermont's congressional delegation.
According to a news release, the Vermont Fire Academy and 15 fire departments throughout the state have received awards as part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Assistance to Firefighters Grant program.
The AFG program helps fire departments, fire academies, and EMS agencies obtain critical equipment and training.
This year's AFG grants will help departments purchase air packs, vehicle extraction tools, and a fire truck and will also fund paramedic training.
Grant awards went to three departments in the Windham region: Putney Fire Department ($181,510), Grafton Firefighters' Association ($65,238), and Readsboro Fire Department ($85,714).
“Vermont's first responders are some of the most dedicated public servants we have. They keep our communities safe, answering the call at all hours of the day and night, and they put their own safety on the line in doing so,” Sens. Patrick Leahy and Bernie Sanders, and Rep. Peter Welch said in a joint statement. “We are pleased that these federal grants will help departments secure the updated equipment they need and deserve so that they can continue to provide these vital services.”
The next AFG application period is expected to open in December. In preparation, FEMA's grant specialists will host workshops in Vermont and online webinars this fall.
Each workshop is approximately 2 1/2 hours long and provides information on the AFG programs, what is new for 2019, and tips to develop and submit a successful application.
To learn more about AFG and sign up for email updates, visit www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program.