Press Releases

Parryville, PA – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright announced the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded Parryville Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 with an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG). The funds will be distributed via the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The Parryville Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 received a $77,715 Operations and Safety grant. These funds will allow the fire company to purchase 12 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA); each unit will include a harness/backpack, face piece and two air cylinders. SCBA units are worn by rescue workers, firefighters, and others to provide breathable air.

“Our firefighters go into harm’s way to keep us safe; they should have the equipment they need to do their job and protect themselves,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus. “The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program continues to be a critical resource to firefighters and communities; I will continue to be a strong supporter of this federal program that saves lives.”

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.