North Central PA Times

On February 13, 2024, Rep. Michael Stender (R-Northumberland/Montour) announced that 24 fire and emergency medical services (EMS) companies in the 108th District have been awarded grant funding support through the 2023-24 Pennsylvania Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program. Stender, a former career and volunteer firefighter himself, expressed his pride in seeing the state funding benefit the local fire and EMS companies in his district.

"Our local first responders ensure the safety and security of our families, and these grant dollars will contribute to their continued life-saving operations," said Stender.

The grants were awarded to various organizations in the district, with each organization receiving a specific amount of funding. Among the recipients are East End Fire Company, Friendship Fire Company No. 1, Goodwill Hose Company No. 4, Liberty Township Volunteer Fire Company, Valley Township Fire Company, Washington Fire and Hose Co. 2, Washingtonville Volunteer Fire Company, Americus Hose Company (EMS and Fire), East Sunbury Hose Company 1, Friendship Hose Company, Good Will Hose Company Inc., Milton Fire Department Inc. (Fire and EMS), Northumberland Fire Company 1, Northumberland Hook and Ladder Company, Point Township Fire Company, Rescue Hose Company No. 1, Southside Fire Company No. 1, Stonington Volunteer Fire Company, Sunbury Steam Fire Engine Company #No.1, Upper Augusta Volunteer Fire Company, Warrior Run Ambulance, and Warrior Run Area Fire Department.

The grant funding will be used for various projects and programs, including facility upgrades, equipment purchases, debt reduction, training and certification, education and public outreach, and recruitment and retention efforts. Fire companies were also allowed to apply for construction savings accounts for new facility construction.

It is important to note that the ongoing funding program was created by the General Assembly and all grants are generated from slot machine gaming proceeds, not General Fund tax revenue. The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, and the application process is handled through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). The funding amounts are contingent on the recipients filing their grant agreements with OSFC.

The grants provided through the Pennsylvania Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the local fire and EMS companies in the 108th District. With the funding, these organizations will be able to enhance their capabilities, improve their facilities, and ensure the safety of the communities they serve.

Source: Representative Michael Stender, 108th Legislative District, Pennsylvania House of Representatives