HARRISBURG — Fire companies and EMS agencies throughout Luzerne County were awarded state grants totaling more than $95,000 to assist with their important mission to protect public safety, according to Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), Rep. Jamie Walsh (R-117) and Rep. Eddie Day Pashinski (D-121).
“I’m thankful so many local fire and EMS companies were awarded these highly competitive funds,” Argall said. “These grants are well-deserved and will help our brave first responders with their critically important and dangerous jobs.”
“Our fire and EMS companies are the backbone of public safety in our communities,” Walsh said. “These grants recognize their unwavering dedication and provide critical resources to help them continue saving lives and protecting property. I am proud to support these brave men and women who answer the call every day, and I thank them for their service.”
“I’m proud to see Bear Creek Hose Company receive this funding,” Pashinski said. “These men and women put themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities, and this investment will make a real difference for Bear Creek and the surrounding area. I would also like to thank Sen. Argall for his collaboration on these grants”
Projects eligible for funding include construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training, recruitment and retention, public education about fire safety or reduction of debt. The funding program was created by the General Assembly. All grants are generated from slot machine gaming proceeds.
The following organizations were awarded funding:
- Bear Creek Township Volunteer Hose Company — $12,014
- Dennison Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 — $12,220
- Fearnots Volunteer Fire Company — $12,838
- Freeland Fire Department — $14,889
- Freeland Northside Community Ambulance Association — $15,000
- White Haven Fire Company No. 1 — $13,457
- White Haven Rescue Unit Inc. — $15,000
The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency with the application process handled through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). All companies that apply and meet requirements outlined by OSFC receive funding. Companies must file a grant agreement with OSFC to receive their grants.
CONTACTS:
Seth Hubler (Argall)
Tricia Lehman (Walsh)
Adam Piasecki (Pashinski)