Luzerne Times

Rep. Aaron Kaufer has announced that over $315,000 in grants will be distributed to 21 fire company and EMS departments within the 120th District. These funds are provided through the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program (FCEMSGP).

"I'm thrilled that our local first responders were awarded these grants," Kaufer stated. "These funds will help our first responders continue to do the important work of helping all of us in our time of need."

The recipients include Back Mountain Regional Fire & EMS Inc., Columbian Volunteer Fire Department, Courtdale Volunteer Hose Company, Exeter Hose Company No. 1, Forty Fort Volunteer Fire Company, Harding Fire Company, Independent Fire Company No. 1 Inc., Kingston Fire Department, Kingston Fireman’s Community Ambulance Association, Kunkle Fire Company Inc., Maltby Volunteer Fire Company, Mt. Zion Bicentennial Fire Company, Shavertown Fire Department, Swoyersville Hose Company, Trucksville Volunteer EMS Fire & Rescue Association, Volunteer Fire Department of Luzerne, West Wyoming Hose Company No. 1, Wyoming Hose Company No. 1 and Wyoming Volunteer Hose Company No. 2.

To receive the grants, recipients must file agreements with the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). The FCEMSGP is managed by OSFC and offers annual grants for volunteer and career fire companies as well as emergency medical services and rescue squads. Projects eligible for funding include facility upgrades, equipment purchases, debt reduction efforts, training and certification programs among others.

Further details on grant awardees and future funding opportunities can be accessed at www.osfc.pa.gov.

For more information about constituent services or inquiries related to this announcement contact RepKaufer's district office in Luzerne at 161 Main St., by calling 570-283-1001 or visit RepKaufer.com or Facebook.com/RepKaufer.