WASHINGTON, D.C. – Firefighters and first responders in the Fourth Congressional District will have and opportunity to learn more about federal grants available to acquire equipment, training and other resources needed to protect the public and obtain assistance in preparing grant applications during two workshops to be held by U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-Hamilton) next week. 

            “Firefighters and emergency responders work to keep our communities safe and secure 24 hours-a-day,” Smith said.  “Federal grants are available to allow local fire departments and first responders to replace outdated equipment, acquire vehicles and hire and train personnel so they can improve their ability to perform vital services for their communities.” 

“The workshops I am hosting will provide fire departments and first responders throughout the district added insights and resources to cut through the bureaucratic red-tape and effectively compete for critical federal funds,” said Smith.

Smith worked with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at the federal level and Tony Correia, Director of Fire Services for Burlington Township and Brick Town Council President Steve Acropoli at the local level to set-up the workshops.  DHS officials will conduct the training at both sessions.

DHS awards grants to fire departments to enhance their ability to protect the public and fire service personnel from fire and related hazards.  Three types of grants are available: Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S), and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER).

            The workshops are provided free of charge.  For more information and to register, contact Candace Mueller, at Smith’s office at 609-585-7878 or 732-350-2300.  To learn more about DHS’s fire grants program, visit www.firegrantsupport.com

Wednesday, March 7, 2007 at 1:00 pm

Wednesday March 7, 2007 at 7:00 pm

Brick Civic Center

270 Chambers Bridge Road

Brick