Washington, DC – Congressman Bill Shuster announced today funding for the Mill Creek Volunteer Fire Department in Huntingdon County.  The grant is provided by the Assistance to Firefighters Program (AFP) and will be used to purchase new turn-out gear, which is the traditional gear and overcoats worn by firefighters to protect them from the excessive heat and smoke they are exposed to. 

“Without this grant we would not be able to buy this new gear and it is a needed improvement for our volunteers,” said Fire Chief Mike Swanger. 

The VFD will receive $51,300 through the AFP, which focuses on providing new equipment, safety gear and vehicles for fire departments around the country.  The program awards one-year grants directly to fire departments to help fund the services they deliver.  The Mill Creek Department will use their grant to purchase 30 turn-out coats and gear. 

“When the community is in need these men and women respond, and they volunteer their time to do so,” said Shuster, chairman of the Emergency Management Subcommittee in Congress.  “It is important that we keep their equipment up-to-date and safe for their use when they are called upon.  This funding provides for their safety and helps them better protect our neighborhoods.” 

The AFP is administered through the Department of Homeland Security.  In the past this program has helped only fire departments, but this year, for the first time, it was opened up to all emergency preparedness officials.