Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker (D – New Jersey) recently announced the availability of federal grants to help fire departments in New Jersey and across the United States. These grants, which are administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), can be used to improve equipment, facilities, and training for local fire departments.
Hoboken is the only Fire Department in Hudson County getting the federal funding in this round of grants.
- $1,177,988.28 – Hoboken (Hiring of 4 Firefighters, Salary Payment For 4 Years)
In a statement, Senator Menendez emphasized the importance of supporting the brave men and women who serve as firefighters. “Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and we owe it to them to provide the resources they need to do their job safely and effectively,” he said.
The grants, which are part of FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, have a total funding of $319.5 million. They are available to both career and volunteer fire departments, as well as to non-affiliated EMS organizations. The deadline for applications is March 12, 2023.
According to FEMA, eligible activities under the AFG program include the purchase of firefighting and EMS equipment, the construction or renovation of fire stations, the implementation of training programs, and the acquisition of personal protective equipment.
Senator Menendez urged fire departments in New Jersey and around the country to take advantage of the grants. “Whether you’re a big city department or a small rural one, these funds can make a real difference in your ability to respond to emergencies and keep your firefighters safe,” he said.
“Our brave firefighters selflessly put their lives on the line every day to protect us,” said Senator Booker. “These grants will enable fire departments to respond swiftly to emergencies and keep their communities secure.”“These critical funds will allow the City to bring on more qualified firefighters, helping the Hoboken Fire Department better protect and serve our community,” said Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla. “Thank you to Senators Menendez and Booker, and Congressman Menendez, for helping to secure this near $1.2 million in SAFER grant funding from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
“This SAFER grant will ensure that the Hoboken Fire Department has additional resources to continue the selfless and dedicated work that its firefighters perform every single day in one of New Jersey’s most densely populated cities,” said Congressman Rob Menendez (D-N.J.-08). “I am appreciative of the Biden Administration’s investment in the long-term safety of our constituents, and I look forward to providing more resources and assistance for additional safety measures for the benefit of all of our residents across the district.”
The AFG program has been in existence since 2001 and has provided funding to thousands of fire departments and EMS organizations. Senator Menendez has been a vocal supporter of the program, which he says is essential to ensuring that firefighters have the resources they need to keep communities safe.
Overall, the availability of these grants is a positive development for fire departments in New Jersey and across the United States. By providing funding for critical equipment, facilities, and training, the grants can help ensure that firefighters are able to respond to emergencies quickly and safely.
