WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (MI) and Gary Peters (MI) in recent days announced that the Beaver Creek Fire Department will receive $17,621 and the Manistee Fire Department will receive $93,333 in federal funding to improve operations and safety for firefighters and personnel. These federal funds come from the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program.

“Our firefighters in Northern Michigan put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities,” said Senator Stabenow. “These new resources will help keep the public safe and give our first responders the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely and effectively.”

“Firefighters in Northern Michigan risk their lives to keep our communities safe. It’s critical they have the resources needed to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. “These grants will help protect the health and safety of our brave firefighters.” 

Eligible fire departments and Emergency Medical Services organizations in Michigan and across the country can apply for Assistance to Firefighters Grants. These competitive grants help first responders purchase the equipment and obtain the training needed to handle fire-related hazards. More information about the grant can be found at http://www.fema.gov/firegrants. 

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