WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senators Olympia J. Snowe (R-ME) and Susan Collins (R-ME) today announced $296,979 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The grants will be allocated to three local fire departments in the State of Maine . The funding is provided through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, or FIRE Act.
“This federal funding will allow first responders throughout Maine to acquire the training and equipment necessary to better serve their communities,” said Snowe and Collins in a joint statement.
The following departments will receive funding:
· $180,633 for the Wells Fire Department.
· $58,121 for the Van Buren Fire Department.
· $58,225 for the Frenchville Volunteer Fire Department.
The Wells, Van Buren, and Frenchville Fire Departments will use their funds for an Operations and Firefighting Safety Program which consists of training, equipment, wellness and fitness as well as modifications to the fire station’s facilities.
FIRE Act Grants are awarded to fire departments across the United States to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, Emergency Medical Service programs, and Fire Prevention and Safety programs and to purchase new fire equipment.