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WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Greg Walden (R-OR) today announced that a $202,500 award from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFGP) will go to the Huntington Volunteer Fire Department to assist with the purchase of firefighting vehicles and equipment.
“Volunteer firefighters are true public servants who risk their own safety to help protect their neighbors and community from the devastation of fire,” said Walden. “Ensuring that fire departments have the vehicles necessary to get the job done is paramount, especially in rural areas where distances traveled are much greater than urban areas. This investment will help the citizens of Huntington purchase a new firefighting vehicle, further enhancing the good work being done by the dedicated volunteers at the department.”
The AFGP awards one-year grants directly to fire departments to support the services they deliver. Grantees submit applications for the Operations and Fire Safety Program, Fire Prevention Program, or Firefighting Vehicles Acquisition Program. Peer review panels score applications, and awards are based on both financial need and the articulation of benefits to be derived from the grant.
“Awarding these funds was an excellent choice by the AFGP,” continued Walden. “They clearly recognize the importance of strong firefighting operations in rural communities, and I appreciate the support shown by President Bush and Homeland Security Secretary Ridge.”
Congressman Walden represents the Second Congressional District of Oregon, which includes 20 counties in southern, central and eastern Oregon. He is a Deputy Whip in the House leadership structure and a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce as well as the Committee on Resources. |
