January 20, 2012

Rockefeller, Manchin Announce Grant for Glen Dale Volunteer Fire Department

Federal Funds Awarded through Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Jay Rockefeller and Joe Manchin (both D-W.Va.), today announced that Glen Dale Volunteer Fire Department in Marshall County will receive $15,723 as part of the latest round of funding under the Fiscal Year 2011 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. This money will assist with operations and safety.

“First responders are the backbone of public safety in small towns and communities everywhere. With this much-needed grant they will be better equipped to protect the people of Glen Dale,” said Rockefeller. “These funds represent an important commitment by the federal government to make sure our first responders have everything they need to do their crucial, life-saving jobs.”

“West Virginia's dedicated emergency personnel at our local fire departments are so important to protecting the health and safety of the people and our great state, and my experience working with the volunteer rescue squad in Marion County has allowed me to appreciate their hard work firsthand,” Senator Manchin said. “This grant will provide the Glen Dale Volunteer Fire Department with the essential resources it needs to respond to all types of emergencies and continue to keep our communities safe.”

For Fiscal Year 2011, the AFG program will award nearly $380 million in direct assistance to fire department and emergency medical service organizations to improve the effectiveness of firefighting operations and emergency response capabilities. Funding can be used to purchase response equipment, personal protective equipment and vehicles.

AFG grants are funded through the annual Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act. Rockefeller and Manchin have consistently supported this and other grant programs to ensure adequate funding and resources for America’s first responders. 

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