Twenty-eight fire and emergency medical services (EMS) companies in Pennsylvania’s 116th Legislative District have been awarded more than $446,000 through the 2025-26 Pennsylvania Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, according to an announcement by Rep. Dane Watro (R-Luzerne/Schuylkill) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-29).
Rep. Watro stated, “I deeply appreciate the tireless efforts and commitment of our first responders. Their exceptional work ensures the safety of communities throughout the 116th District. I recognize that many companies face financial challenges and struggle to raise funds. That’s why this annual state initiative is so important. It provides a reliable source of funding that allows these dedicated teams to continue their crucial, life-saving duties.”
Sen. Argall added, “I’m thankful so many local fire and EMS companies were awarded these highly competitive funds. These grants are well-deserved and will help our brave first responders with their critically important and dangerous jobs.”
The grants support projects such as construction or renovation of facilities, equipment purchase or repair, training, recruitment and retention efforts, public education on fire safety, and debt reduction.
The grant program was established by the General Assembly and is funded through proceeds from slot machine gaming rather than General Fund tax revenue.
Local recipients in Luzerne County include the West Hazleton Fire Department ($13,250.94), Diamond Engine Hose Hook and Ladder Company No. 2 ($15,518.21), East End Engine and Hose Company No. 3 ($13,869.28), Fourteenth Ward Fire Company ($12,632.59), Harwood Fire Co. ($12,838.71), Hazle Township Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company ($16,136.55), Hazleton City Fire Department ($16,136.55), Hazleton Heights Volunteer Fire Company ($13,044.82), Hazleton Rescue Squad ($13,457.05), Pioneer Fire Company No. 1 ($14,075.40), and West Hazleton Fire Hose Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 ($13,457.05).
In Schuylkill County, grants were distributed to Citizens Fire Company No. 2 ($14,899.86); Columbia Hose and Steam Fire Company No. 1 ($12,838.71); Defender Hose Company ($12,014.25); Good American Hose Company No. 3 ($12,426.48); Heights Fire Company No. 1 ($12,426.48); Humane Fire Company No. 1 ($12,014.25); McAdoo Fire Company Inc., which received two awards totaling $53,487; Phoenix Fire Company No. 2 ($12,838 .71); Polish American Fire Company ($12 ,426 .48 ); Rescue Hook & Ladder Co .No .1($14 ,487 .63 ); Ringtown Valley F&R Co .($24 ,220 .36 ); Shenandoah Community Ambulance Association($45 ,000 ); Sheppton Oneida VFC($12 ,426 .48 ), Washington Hook & Ladder #1($12 ,632 .59 ), West End F&R($14 ,281 .52 ), William Penn FC #1($13 ,250 .94 ).
The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency with applications managed by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). All eligible applicants receive funding after submitting a grant agreement with OSFC.
