Fire and Ambulance Grant Program Underway

(HARRISBURG) - - Volunteer fire companies and ambulance services should apply now for grants through the Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Program, according to State Senator John R. Gordner (R-27).

“Pennsylvania’s volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services crews provide a tremendous and invaluable service to our communities,” Senator Gordner said. “I strongly support this grant program as a way to show our support for their work.”

Since 2000, the General Assembly has appropriated $25 million annually to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency to provide grants to volunteer fire and EMS departments. This year’s grant program will cover the 2006 and 2007 fiscal years, but the Senator said volunteers will only need to submit one grant application to receive funds for both years.

“The program was created to help volunteer emergency responders purchase new equipment and maintain their facilities,” Sen. Gordner said. “Without question, it has been highly successful -- reaching all corners of our Commonwealth. These volunteers stand on the front lines every day to protect our communities.”

The Office of State Fire Commissioner has contacted volunteer squads with information on how to apply over the Internet for the funds. Additional information is available at www.osfc.state.pa.us.