(Washington, DC): -- Congressman Michael R. McNulty (D-Green Island) announced today that the Cohoes Fire Department will receive $76,626 in federal funds from the 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant program administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The congressman noted that the funding would enable the department to establish a physical fitness program.

City of Cohoes Fire Chief Joseph M. Fahd, Jr., said, "The goal of the program will be to keep our firefighters in the best possible health and physical condition which will enable them to better perform their duties and provide them with the opportunity to live a longer and healthier life. The Cohoes Fire Department is deeply appreciative of the receipt of this grant."

"First responders risk their personal health and well-being each and every day to ensure the safety of citizens in our cities, towns and villages," McNulty said. "Providing our first responders with the resources and encouragement necessary to keep physically fit pays dividends in the long run for them, for their families, and for our communities."

He added, "I am personally familiar with the tremendous contributions which Cohoes firefighters have made to the people of our community, and I salute them for their outstanding courage and commitment."

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