Altoona Times

Senator Judy Ward, Representative Rich Irvin, and Representative Scott Barger have announced that nearly $325,000 in grants will be distributed to fire departments and emergency medical services in Huntingdon County. This funding comes from the Office of the State Fire Commissioner’s Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program.

“These annual grant awards support the needs of our Fire and EMS providers so they are equipped to help those who call on them in times of desperate need,” said Ward. “Our first responders play such a vital role, especially in our rural communities, and are appreciated for their dedication and hard work.”

Irvin emphasized the importance of this funding: “This is critical funding that helps ensure our fire and EMS companies stay open. These operations take a lot of hard work, long hours and funding to safely and effectively serve their communities. I have, and always will, support these vital organizations.”

Barger added: “Our first responders, particularly those with all-volunteer departments, not only serve their friends and neighbors by providing life- and property-saving interventions, but they are spending more and more time training, fundraising and handling administrative functions. These grants are a small way to show our thankfulness and ease that burden for them.”

The grant money will be used for various purposes including facilities improvements, equipment purchases, debt reduction, training programs, education initiatives, as well as overtime costs related to backfilling positions during firefighter training sessions.

For updates on legislation or district news from Senator Ward or Representatives Irvin and Barger, residents can follow their respective social media accounts or visit their websites.