Four local fire departments will receive $850,000 in state funding, New York State Assemblymembers Jon D. Rivera and Pat Burke and Rep. Tim Kennedy announced Friday.
“Whether it’s a house fire, a car crash, or a natural disaster, our local fire departments are always the first to respond, often putting their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. At a time when federal support has been reduced and volunteer numbers are falling, New York State must step up to ensure our first responders have the equipment and resources they need to protect the public and return home safely themselves,” Rivera said.
The money will be spread out across four groups and will go towards buying new equipment, along with the installation of a new water line and fire hydrant in Lackawanna.
“This generous $250k grant from Assemblymember Rivera will assist the Lackawanna Fire Department in making greatly-needed upgrades to the department’s emergency radio equipment and continuing to expand the capabilities of our new in-house fire training facility, which provides our firefighters with modern hands-on learning experiences right here in the city,” Lackawanna Fire Chief James Fino said. “The Lackawanna Fire Department thanks the Assemblymember and his team for their continued support of our department.”
The Lackawanna Fire Department will receive $250,000 for the purchase of emergency equipment and for the installation of a new water line and fire hydrant at the city’s fire training facility on North Steelawanna Avenue, Woodlawn Volunteer Fire Company will receive $250,000 for the purchase of emergency vehicles and equipment, the Armor Volunteer Company is getting $200,000 for the purchase of emergency vehicles and equipment and the Newton Abbott Fire Company will receive $250,000 for the purchase of a utility task vehicle (UTV) to support emergency response operations.
“Every day, the firefighters and first responders in our communities run toward danger to keep our communities safe. These heroes deserve the funding to strengthen their training and upgrade their equipment so they can return home safely to their families, because when we invest in them, we invest in the safety of our entire community,” Congressman Tim Kennedy added. “I’m proud to stand alongside leaders who are stepping up to ensure our communities have the resources to thrive. It’s time for Congress to do the same and increase funding for critical programs like the Assistance to Firefighters Grant initiative.”