In the News

U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright (PA-08) on Tuesday said area fire departments are a first line of defense, keeping communities safe and secure.

Cartwright, a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded more than $2 million in federal funding to support 20 northeastern Pennsylvania firefighters and first responders through its Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs.

“These grants will help ensure these first responders have the personnel, vehicles, training and everyday tools to ensure the safety of our neighborhoods and loved ones,” Cartwright said. “I am proud to stand with firefighters and first responders in Congress. On the House Appropriations Committee, I will continue doing everything I can to support our dedicated heroes.”

Cartwright said the grants will allow firefighters throughout Lackawanna, Luzerne, Monroe and Wayne counties to be appropriately staffed and equipped with critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.