CHENANGO COUNTY - Three Chenango County fire departments are slated for nearly $196,000 in federal grants to help their firefighters train and become better equipped for local emergencies.

Fire departments across the 22nd Congressional District were awarded last week through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant program. Officials say the additional boost of funding will help local departments prioritize operations and safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Chenango County, the New Berlin, South Otselic, and Sherburne fire departments were handed grants for their operations. Nearly $74,290 will go to the South Otselic Fire Department, $29,350 to the New Berlin Fire Department, and $91,650 to the Sherburne Fire Department.