March 10, 2011

Manchin, Rockefeller Announce $90,270 for Wheeling Fire Department

Federal funds awarded through Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program

Washington, D.C. – United States Senators Joe Manchin and Jay Rockefeller (both D-W.Va.), today announced that the Wheeling Fire Department will receive $90,270 in funding through the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. The funds will go toward operations and safety, and can be used to purchase training and personal protective equipment, for wellness and fitness, and to make health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.

“I believe in our dedicated firefighters, who ensure that the people of West Virginia are safe and protected, and my experience working with the volunteer rescue squad in Marion County has allowed me to appreciate their hard work firsthand,” Senator Manchin said. “These grants will provide our first responders – who sacrifice so much – with the tools needed to make sure that they can quickly respond to West Virginians in times of need.”

“West Virginians count on first responders to be there for our communities day in and day out,” Senator Rockefeller said. “These men and women work hard every single day, often putting their own safety at risk, to make sure our communities are safe and secure. This money will help to give these brave firefighters the right equipment and training they need to continue doing their important work.”

AFG grants are funded through the annual Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act.

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