Press Releases

U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) today announced that six first responder agencies will be awarded a total of $ $140,575.47 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant – COVID-19 Supplemental Program (AFG-S) to be used for personal protective equipment (PPE) and essential supplies.

FEMA is providing $100 million in supplemental FY2020 funding for PPE and essential supplies to the fire service community to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes reimbursement for expenditures made since January 1, 2020. PPE supplies include masks, gloves, gowns, goggles, respirators, and related items. More award announcements are expected into August on a rolling basis.

“In Congress, we recognize our responsibility to help our first responders get the basic equipment they need to stay safe,” said Rep. Cartwright, a member of the House Appropriations Committee. “This funding through the CARES Act supports our emergency responders and enables them to continue answering their communities’ calls during the coronavirus pandemic.

AFG-S COVID-19 Supplemental Program is authorized by the CARES Act and Section 33 of the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974. The $100 million in funding awarded under AFG-S is separate and distinct from the FY 2019 AFG Program published on January 27, 2020. AFG-S funds were made available to fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical service (NAEMS) organizations, and State Fire Training Academies (SFTA). Grants are awarded using a competitive process for applicants whose requests best address the priorities of AFG-S.