Adjust Text Size

For Immediate Release
September 10, 2007
Back

White Urges Fire Departments/EMS to Seek Grants

Volunteer companies have until October 11 to apply for funds

Franklin – State Senator Mary Jo White (R-21) is urging local volunteer fire departments and emergency medical services (EMS) squads to apply for $50 million in grants from the Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Program.

White said the online application for the grants is available through October 11 at www.osfc.state.pa.us. 

This year, the Office of the State Fire Commissioner will administer two fiscal years of grants on one application. That means the maximum grant amounts -- $30,000 for fire departments and $20,000 for ambulance services -- are double the usual amounts, the senator said. 

Grants may be used for construction or renovation of a fire company facility, purchase or repair of firefighting or rescue equipment, training or debt reduction. 

"Local firefighters and EMS squads protect lives and property, and are asked to carry quite a heavy load as volunteers," said White. "While community support is essential, the state can lend a helping hand in dealing with large, capital costs. That's why the Legislature recently reauthorized this grant program for another five years. It's a valuable resource, and I urge volunteer companies to apply now."