Press Releases

Nesquehoning, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded the Nesquehoning Hose Company No. 1, Inc. with an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). The funds will be distributed via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Operations and Safety Grant of $42,858 has been awarded to Nesquehoning Hose Company. The AFG funds will allow the fire company to purchase a Cascade Compressor Fill Station to refill SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) units following use. SCBA units are worn by rescue workers, firefighters, and others and provide firefighters breathable air.

“I am glad the Nesquehoning Hose Company will be able to purchase this system,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. “This grant will help ensure the fire department and emergency medical personnel have the resources they need to protect themselves and the community.”

The purpose of the AFG is to award competitive grants directly to fire departments to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel.  Since 2001, the AFG program has provided approximately $6.7 billion in grants to first-responder organizations to obtain much-needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles, and training.

During the current funding cycle, the AFG program will award another $310.5 million to first-responder organizations that need support to improve their capability to respond to fires and emergencies of all types.