PWFD Scores $325K Federal Grant

The will receive $324,968 in federal funding to purchase new protective gear for firefighters. The new equipment will enable firefighters to battle fires and emergencies more effectively. 

News of the grant was announced by Sen. Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand Thursday. The money was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Administration’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant.

“This grant will go a long way towards ensuring that the Port Washington Fire Department has the resources they need to respond quickly and effectively to local emergencies,” Schumer said, in a statement. “By allowing our local heroes to purchase needed equipment, these funds will make our communities safer and more secure.”

“This funding will help provide the Port Washington Fire Department with the equipment and tools necessary to save lives,” stated Gillibrand. “I will continue working to ensure that Long Island’s first responders and community residents have the resources they need to keep our neighborhoods safe.”

“We are extremely pleased that we have been awarded the AFG grant for turn out gear,” stated Port Washington Fire Chief Geoffrey Cole. “This will enable us to upgrade our gear at minimal expense to our residents, and we appreciate the help and support rendered by Senators Schumer and Gillibrand.”

Established by DHS and FEMA, the The AFG Program is part of an effort to increase the nation’s emergency response preparation. The program delivers federal funding to first-responder organizations to acquire personal protective equipment, firefighting vehicles, and emergency response equipment. The funds also help provide emergency response trainings.