WEST ORANGE, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the Township of West Orange. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.
The West Orange Fire Department will receive $60,000 in federal funding to upgrade essential firefighter protective equipment.
Fire Chief Nicholas Gillo formally accepted the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) on behalf of the Township of West Orange following the Township Council's approval and adoption of Resolution 274-26 at their meeting on October 13, 2026.
This funding will assist the WOFD in purchasing essential protective gear for personnel while also allowing allocation of existing departmental funds toward other critical needs and priorities. These resources will help to continue improving firefighter safety, maintaining operational readiness, and ensuring compliance with applicable National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards.
The funding supports fire departments nationwide in obtaining critical equipment and improving emergency response capabilities. The grant provides for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) that meets National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) safety standards.
The Township will contribute $6,000 in matching funds, bringing the total investment to $66,000. The grant funding is available through September 27, 2028.
The federal award represents another investment in the West Orange Fire Department's operational readiness, helping ensure that firefighters have the protective equipment necessary to respond safely and effectively when the needs occur. By securing outside funding, West Orange continues to strengthen its emergency services while reducing the financial burden on West Orange taxpayers.
The West Orange Fire Department is a multi-faceted public safety agency located in Essex County, New Jersey. WOFD provides fire protection, hazard mitigation, emergency medical services, fire prevention education and fire code enforcement to the community of West Orange and its neighboring mutual aid communities.
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