For Immediate Release
January 17, 2008

Representative Pitts Applauds Fire Dept. Grant

Witmer Fire Protection Association to receive award under Department of Homeland Security grant program

Washington– The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced the awarding of a grant to the Witmer Fire Protection Association through its Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.  Witmer, located in East Lampeter Township, will receive $40,422 for operations and safety.

Congressman Pitts’ statement follows:

“I am pleased by this announcement from the Department of Homeland Security,” said Congressman Pitts.  “It is critical that we ensure our first responders have the resources they need to serve their communities.  As a rural dire department, Witmer will benefit greatly from this grant.” 

Background

The Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program is part of the federal government’s coordinated effort to strengthen the nation’s overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and fire-related hazards.  Since 2001, over $3.3 billion in AFG funds have been distributed to first-responder organizations to purchase response equipment, personal protective equipment, and vehicles. AFG is a highly competitive program.  DHS received more than 20,000 applications in 2007.

These awards aim to enhance first responders’ ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel, with respect to fire-related hazards.  Using a competitive process overseen by fire service subject matter experts, AFG awards grants to applicants whose requests best address the priorities of the AFG program. 

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