Kildee Announces $125,000 in Grant Awards for the Blumfield Twp. Fire Department

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dale E. Kildee (D-MI) announced today that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $124,606 to the Blumfield Township Fire Department.  FEMA in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration awarded the funds to the Blumfield Township Fire Department under the Fiscal Year 2007 Assistance to Firefighters Grant program for fire operations and firefighter safety. 

“We must continue to provide more funding to ensure the safety and preparedness of the brave men and women who continually risk their lives to protect ours,” said Kildee.  “These funds will enable our first responders to pursue new training and wellness programs and provide them with access to new equipment.”

Congressman Kildee was an original cosponsor of the legislation authorizing the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, a coordinated effort to strengthen the nation’s overall security.  The Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act of 2000 authorized FEMA to make grants available to fire departments throughout the nation.  Fire Departments nationwide will receive $490 million to support fire protection, EMS delivery, vehicle procurement and prevention programs in 2007.  FEMA typically receives more than 20,000 applications each year from fire departments requesting funds provided by this program.