WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Michael A. Arcuri (D-Utica) this week announced $526,672 for four local fire departments to enhance preparedness as first responders through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFGP). 

“I am pleased to announce these critical federal grants to provide local fire departments with the resources they need to upgrade equipment and purchase new technology,” said Arcuri, a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. “These grants allow local first responders, many of them volunteers, to improve their already heroic efforts to protect our communities. In Congress, I have joined colleagues on both sides of the aisle to request increased funding for this critical grant program and will continue working in Washington to ensure that local first responders have the tools they need to keep us safe.”

The grants include:

• $ 185,250 for the Pinders Corners Fire Department for Vehicle Acquisition (Otsego County)

• $135,850 for the Coventry Volunteer Fire Company Incorporated for Operations and Safety (Chenango County)