Courtney announces more than $120,000 in federal grants for Wauregan Fire District, Willington Fire Department

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Joe Courtney today announced two federal grants to eastern Connecticut fire departments through the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The first was secured by Plainfield's Wauregan Fire District, and is valued at $73,150. The second grant, for $49,400, was secured by the Willington Fire Department. The Wauregan grant will be used to purchase breathing apparatuses, while the Willington Fire Department will use its funding for a diesel exhaust system.

"As we see consistently in fire emergencies, state-of-the-art equipment—whether breathing apparatuses or communications equipment—is absolutely essential to firefighters and their ability to respond effectively," said Congressman Courtney. "These targeted investments will make our first responders safer, and will allow the departments to better serve the people of Wauregan, Willington, and the surrounding areas. The departments deserve a tremendous amount of credit for demonstrating need in a challenging funding environment."

Congressman Courtney has consistently supported additional funding for AFG Program since his arrival in Congress. Since 2001, the AFG has provided more than $4.6 billion in grants to first-responder organizations to obtain much-needed emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles, and training.