Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) and Seneca Nation of Indians President Maurice A. John announced the Seneca Nation of Indians Volunteer Fire Department will receive $27,654 in Homeland Security funding in the thirteenth round of Fire Prevention and Safety grants for fiscal year 2007.
“These resources play an important role in safeguarding the Seneca Nation residents, businesses and the dedicated first responders who work to protect and serve the Salamanca region,” said Congressman Higgins. “While oftentimes funding is available for fire fighting equipment and training, this program is unique in its focus on preventing fires before they start.”
Fire Prevention & Safety (FP&S) grants are intended to help local organizations address fire prevention and safety issues with the primary goal of reaching high-risk target groups including children, seniors and firefighters. Twenty-seven million dollars was made available in the fiscal year 2007 budget for FP&S grants. FP&S is part of a larger Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) program administered by the Department of Homeland Security in cooperation with the US Fire Administration.
“This grant clearly demonstrates how our two nations can work together, and continue to,” said Seneca Nation President Maurice A. John Sr. “This money will have a much-needed good effect on our Nation’s firefighting capabilities and the crucial protection of our people and businesses.”
“We are grateful to Congressman Higgins for his work to aid our firefighters and improve their training, so they can better protect our region’s people,” President John added.
For four consecutive years Congressman Higgins has hosted fire grant workshops where local firefighters were invited to learn first hand from a DHS Fire Grant Specialist how to put together a qualifying application. Since 2005 Congressman Higgins has helped to secure over $6.6 million in fire grant funding.
For more information about the fire grant program please contact Congressman Higgins’ office at 716-852-3501.
