WASHINGTON D.C. - U.S. Congressman Dan Boren announced today the award of a $137,750 fire grant to the Dewar Volunteer Fire Department. The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, will be used to purchase a new tanker/pumper truck that hauls approximately 2,000 lbs. The current truck the fire department uses was built in 1967 and holds only 1,100 lbs.
“I am pleased to announce that this money is headed to Dewar,” Boren said. “It will help ensure our rural fire departments are not left behind as they work to provide first responder services to Oklahomans when they need it most.”
The Department of Homeland Security’s “Assistance to Firefighters Grants” (AFG) program awards funding directly to fire departments and non-affiliated emergency medical service organizations. The grants allow these departments and organizations to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public and first responders.
“We appreciate Congressman Boren’s assistance in securing this funding on behalf of the citizens of Dewar,” said Fire Chief George Powell. “We look forward to working with him on future projects to improve emergency response in Okmulgee County.”
In Fiscal Year 2007 the Department of Homeland Security will award approximately $490 million to departments across the country. Since 2004, the AFG program has provided almost $2.4 billion in grants to fire departments and first responder organizations.
####
