61 Fire and EMS Companies in Berks County to Receive Grants

HARRISBURG – 61 Berks County fire departments and EMS companies will soon be receiving grants from the annual Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program, according to Senator David G. Argall, Representative Barry Jozwiak, and Representative Jerry Knowles.  This program, facilitated by the Office of the State Fire Commission, provides funding to local first responders across the state for eligible projects.  These grants could go towards facility upgrades, new equipment purchases, or training for new recruits, as well as other projects to help assure the preparedness of our first responders.

“Our brave first responders have put themselves on the line for our safety even more than usual during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Argall.  “These grants are well-deserved, and I am thankful that so many local companies will benefit from this program.”

“In addition to all of the important, life-saving work they traditionally perform, Berks County’s first responders also are serving on the front lines in the battle against COVID-19,” Jozwiak said.  “These grants will provide Berks County first responders with some of the tools they need to perform their jobs and serve our communities.  These grants are an investment in the safety and security of Berks County families.”

“We cannot combat the COVID-19 pandemic without getting these first responders the tools they need to respond to this crisis,” said Knowles. “They often struggle to raise the necessary funds they need to stay in operation. It gives me great satisfaction to know that we are able to provide financial support to our local fire and ambulance companies so they can continue their life-saving services to our communities.”

Legislation was recently signed into law that would provide an additional $50 million in grants to assist fire and EMS companies with costs incurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  The bill, sponsored by Senator Joe Pittman (R-41), would appropriate money from the federal CARES act to the same fire and EMS companies that were eligible to receive funding from the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program.

A list of all the awarded grants is attached.

 

Contact: Christine Verdier    570-773-0891

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