$271K FEMA Grant Going To Bensalem Rescue Squad

BENSALEM TOWNSHIP, PA —The Bensalem Rescue Squad is getting more than $271,000 in funding, courtesy of a FEMA grant to bolster response capabilities and improve safety.

U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) announced Monday that the rescue squad will receive a $271,304.54 FY 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The grant enhances response capabilities and effectiveness in protecting the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel from fire and other related hazards, Fitzpatrick stated in a press release.

The Newtown Fire Association also is receiving $177,072.72 in funding.

The grant will be used for operation and safety through the AFG Program, which awards grants directly to fire departments, non-affiliated emergency medical services organizations and state fire training academies.

“From facing critical staffing shortages to financial struggles, our local fire departments and EMS units have faced unique challenges over the last decade,” Fitzpatrick said. “These grants are essential for the many Bucks County residents that rely on these services to keep them safe."

Grants are awarded to eligible applicants whose applications best address the priorities of the AFG program, which is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.

Since fiscal year FY 2001, the AFG Program has awarded around $7.7 billion in grants to provide critically needed resources. The total amount appropriated for the FY 2021 AFG Program initiative is $460 million.

"As the as a co-chair for the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and certified EMT, I am proud to support our local fire departments and the AFG grant programs,” Fitzpatrick said.