Crawford Times

Rep. Brad Roae (R-Crawford/Erie) has announced that 25 fire and emergency medical services companies in the 6th Legislative District have been awarded over $340,000 in grants. These grants, known as the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services grants, are aimed at providing financial support to these essential services.

"Equipment our fire and ambulance personnel need to do their jobs is expensive," Roae stated. "This grant program helps defray some of the costs so that fundraising does not become a burden on these hardworking men and women. I have supported this program through legislation passed by the General Assembly and will continue to advocate for their needs in Harrisburg."

The grant program, which was initiated in 2000, is open to both volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services, and rescue squads in Pennsylvania. The funds can be used for various purposes, including the construction or repair of facilities, the purchase or repair of equipment, debt reduction, and training.

The funding amounts awarded to the fire and emergency medical services companies serving the 6th District are contingent on the recipients filing their grant agreements with the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. It is important to note that the applicants had to be active in 2023 to be eligible for these grants.

Among the companies awarded grants in Crawford County are the City of Meadville Fire Department, Cochranton Volunteer Fire Department, Conneaut Lake Area Ambulance, Fellows Club Volunteer Fire Department, and Greenwood Volunteer Fire and Rescue, among others. In Erie County, the Cranesville Volunteer Fire Department and the Springfield Volunteer Fire Department were among the recipients.

These grants will undoubtedly help these companies in their mission to provide vital emergency services to the community. By alleviating some of the financial burden, these grants enable the fire and emergency medical services personnel to focus on their duties without worrying about fundraising.

The importance of these grants is recognized by Representative Brad Roae, who has been a strong advocate for the needs of these companies. Through his support and the legislation passed by the General Assembly, these grants have become a valuable resource for fire and emergency medical services companies in the 6th District.

The recipients of these grants have expressed their gratitude for the financial support. They recognize the significance of these grants in ensuring the availability of necessary equipment and resources to effectively carry out their duties.

With the Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services grants, the state of Pennsylvania continues to prioritize the well-being and safety of its communities. The financial assistance provided through these grants is a testament to the government's commitment to supporting these essential services.

As the recipients of these grants work towards utilizing the funds for the designated purposes, the community can rest assured that their fire and emergency medical services are well-equipped and prepared to respond to any crisis that may arise.