U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell has announced a $42,600 Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) for the Secaucus Fire Department, which will go towards training and investing in machines to decontaminate their PPE.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
Funding for this grant program is provided by Pascrell’s Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement (FIRE) Act, which was signed into law in 2000 by President Bill Clinton (D).
“As we continue to beat back COVID-19, our nation’s firefighters are putting their lives on the line like never before. This federal investment in Secaucus’ Bravest will help them continue their vital work of keeping our community safe,” Pascrell said in a statement.
“Earlier this month we secured $14,058 for Secaucus Fire to equip their fire rescue boat with a state-of-the-art communication system. Working with President Biden, I am more confident than ever that these grants will continue to flow into our cities and towns here in North Jersey. I am proud that we were able to bring this federal money home for our community, and I will continue to fight for every cent that supports New Jersey’s first responders.”
Earlier this year, Pascrell helped pass President Joe Biden’s (D) American Rescue Plan, which provided an additional $200 million for the Staffing for Adequate Fire Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program in Fiscal Year 2021 which supports the hiring and retention of firefighters.
The relief package also includes an additional $100 million for the AFG program in FY21, which helps departments invest in lifesaving equipment and resources, such as personal protective equipment, and provide training and mental health support.
