Lowey Announces Fire Grant for Pelham

WHITE PLAINS, NY –

Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) today announced that the Village of Pelham Fire Department will receive $261,250 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to purchase new vehicles through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.

“It is vital for local fire departments to have vehicles and equipment to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies,” said Lowey. “This grant will benefit all residents of Pelham, who can have confidence that their first responders are now better-equipped to meet the challenges they face. I am pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has recognized and is addressing this need.”

The Village of Pelham will use the grant of $261,250 from the FEMA/DHS Assistance to Firefighters Program to replace a 1978 fire engine pump apparatus, with about 30,000 miles of use, which is currently out of service for a major overhaul.

Mayor Ed Hotchkiss said, “The Village of Pelham is pleased and excited to work with the Assistance to Firefighter’s Program, and thanks the Department of Homeland Security, Congresswoman Nita Lowey, and Senators Hillary Clinton and Chuck Schumer for this grant award for a much-needed fire truck to serve the Pelham community. We will explore all options to buy the most appropriate fire pump apparatus to serve the Village of Pelham community.”

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFGP), which is administered by the Department of Homeland Security Office of Grants and Training in coordination with the U.S. Fire Administration, awards grants directly to fire departments and EMS agencies. Funds may be used to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, emergency medical service programs, fire prevention and safety programs, and to purchase new fire equipment.