WASHINGTON – Senator Chuck Grassley today said that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will award three grants totaling $327,270 to fire departments in Iowa.
The Department of Homeland Security will distribute the money as shown below.
• Carson Volunteer Fire Department will receive $33,250 through the Operations and Safety Program to purchase equipment.
• Elma Fire Department will receive $73,335 through the Operations and Safety Program to purchase mobile communication devices.
• Low Moor Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. will receive $220,685 through the Vehicle Acquisition Program to purchase a firefighting vehicle called a pumper.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the Operations and Safety Program provides funding for training, equipment, and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities, and the Vehicle Acquisition Program provides funding for various firefighting and rescue vehicles.
“Firefighters need the right equipment in order to protect their communities,” Grassley said. “These funds help make sure they have access to what they need.”
Each year, local Iowa organizations, colleges and universities, individuals and state agencies apply for competitive grants from the federal government. The funding is then awarded based on each local organization or individual’s ability to meet criteria set by the federal entity administering the funds.