Washington, DC -  Congressman Mike Rogers congratulated Union Volunteer Fire and Rescue today for receiving a $16,478 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, money Rogers said would help the Tallapoosa County unit purchase new safety equipment.

“The men and women of Union Volunteer Fire and Rescue are citizens’ first line of defense,” Rogers said. “This grant will provide direct support for their work, and ultimately help make Tallapoosa County an even safer place to live.”

The Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program, a key component of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and provides funds for training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.

“I would also like to thank state Senator Ted Little for his assistance with this project,” Rogers added.

Passed by Congress and signed into law by President Bush, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program provides funds to the nation’s firefighters to increase the effectiveness of fire department operations, improve fire fighter health and safety programs, purchase new equipment, enhance EMS programs, and support prevention and safety programs.