WASHINGTON  -  U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson (MO-08) and Senators Kit Bond and Jim Talent today announced a $2,880 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development to the Duke Rural Volunteer Fire protection Association.  Rural Development funds will be used to obtain a defibrillator, replace the fire station roof, and set a communications pole.

 

“This grant from Rural Development will help the Duke Rural Volunteer Protection Association serve Southern Missouri.  Fire protection and public safety are paramount concerns in rural Missouri,” Emerson said.  “Rural Development has done an excellent job of identifying opportunities to bolster our public safety and to meet the challenges of homeland security.  This grant will ultimately save property and lives in our community.”

 

"Our first responders put their lives on the line to protect our communities and it is critical that we provide them the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely," said Senator Kit Bond. "These Rural Development funds will help the Duke Rural Volunteer Fire Protection Association better serve Southern Missouri and meet the growing role our first responders play in homeland security."

 

“Local first responders put their lives on the line everyday to protect our local communities,” said Talent, a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. “I welcome the Administration’s support for Drake Rural Firefighters. I will continue working closely with Rep. Emerson and Sen. Bond to secure more funding for first responders in Southeast Missouri.”