Bloomfield Fire Department Awarded $65,250 Federal Grant

Two Essex County fire departments have been awarded federal grants as part of a pair of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants, according to a release from New Jersey Sens. Frank R. Lautenberg and Robert Menendez announced Thursday.

Under the program, the Bloomfield Fire Department will be awarded $65,250 grant via the Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) program, the release said, while the Newark Fire Department will be awarded a $266,800 grant. The grants are for use in operations and safety programs, the release said.

 “This federal funding will help ensure firefighters across New Jersey, from our largest cities to some of our smallest municipalities, are well equipped to protect the public,” Lautenberg, a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, which funds the AFG program, said.  “From recruiting new firefighters to providing equipment and training, these grants are critical to local fire departments, and we’ll continue working to secure federal support for New Jersey's first responders.”

“Whether they serve small towns or big cities, our firefighters are ready to respond to any kind of emergency,” Menendez added. “We need to do everything we can to support them in their dedicated service.”

“That’s why I have been proud to support the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program,” Menendez continued, “which gives all fire departments the chance to receive direct federal aid for the equipment and training they need to carry out their duties as safely and as efficiently as possible.”

Last week, Lautenberg, Menendez and Rep. Donald Payne announced the Newark Fire Department was the recipient of a $3.1 million grant to hire 21 new firefighters.

“Public safety is critical to Newark's success, and this federal grant will help Brick City firefighters provide a higher level of safety and security for local families, schools and businesses,” Lautenberg said.

In all, the senators announced seven New Jersey fire departments are to receive grants totaling nearly $900,000.

The AFG program provides funding to enhance response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel.  These grants can be invested in training, protective equipment, fitness programs, modifications to facilities, and supplies that support firefighting operations and safety.