WASHINGTON – Senator Chuck Grassley today said that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has awarded a $14,000 grant to the Sioux City Fire Department from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program’s Fire Prevention Program.
The Sioux City Fire Department will use the funds to purchase dual sensor smoke detectors and home fire safety booklets.
“This program is intended to help increase community safety and enhance public knowledge of safe fire practices,” Grassley said.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, the purpose of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is to enhance the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire and fire-related hazards. The funds are distributed by the federal agency and are not an earmark designated by Congress.
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.