More than $360,000 in grant money has been allocated to support first responders in Perry and Juniata counties. These funds come from the PA Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, announced by Representative Perry Stambaugh. The grants are distributed to 24 fire companies and ambulance squads within the 86th District, as managed by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner.
This funding originates from proceeds generated by slot machine gaming. It is intended to support a range of uses, including facility upgrades, equipment purchases or repairs, debt reduction, education and public outreach, training, as well as volunteer recruitment and retention.
Stambaugh remarked on the significance of this support, stating: “Firefighters and those who provide emergency medical services put themselves on the line every day for our townships and boroughs. Most do so as volunteers. These grants are one small way to support their tireless efforts and boost public safety.”
Some of the grants distributed within the 86th District include $13,256 to Beale Township Fire Dept., $16,951 to Duncannon Fire Company No. 1, and $30,000 to New Bloomfield EMS, among others. Funding levels are contingent upon the grant recipients filing the necessary agreements with the Office of State Fire Commissioner.
Media contact for more information is Jennifer Fitch, reachable at 717.260.6335. Rep. Stambaugh emphasizes the importance of this initiative as a means of strengthening the resources available to those who ensure community safety in the region.
