Pa. fire departments, EMS agencies receive grants

Public Opinion

NEW BLOOMFIELD, Pa. — Fire and ambulance organizations in the 86th Legislative District have been awarded more than $193,000 in funding through the 2014-15 Pennsylvania Fire Company and Ambulance Service Grant Program, Rep. Mark Keller, R-New Bloomfield, announced.

Shippensburg Area Emergency Medical Services received $7,444.80, and Newburg-Hopewell Volunteer Fire Company was awarded $14,284.70.

"As a former volunteer firefighter, I know firsthand how departments have to struggle to raise the funding they need to remain in operation," said Keller. "I am pleased we are able to provide them with some additional state support so they can continue to serve our communities."

The funding comes from an ongoing grant program created by the Legislature and administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Office of the State Fire Commissioner. All grants are generated from slot machine gaming proceeds, and not general fund tax revenue.

Projects eligible for funding include construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training or reduction of existing debt.

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©2015 the Public Opinion (Chambersburg, Pa.)