Fire departments across Western New York and the Southern Tier are getting a major boost thanks to more than $1.7 million in new federal funding.
Congressman Nick Langworthy announced Wednesday that 20 departments will share $1,749,635 in FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) funds to upgrade lifesaving equipment and improve safety for first responders.
“Firefighters are heroes,” Langworthy said. “I am deeply proud to have secured more than $1.7 million in federal funding to invest in the technology and safety equipment that keeps our communities safe.”
Departments plan to use the funds for critical needs like new radios, turnout gear, air packs, and other emergency tools. Langworthy said the grants also ease the financial burden on rural areas that often struggle to afford modern equipment on tight budgets.
The AFG program, run by FEMA, helps local fire departments enhance operations, replace outdated vehicles and gear, and improve training and safety.
Langworthy, who represents New York’s 23rd Congressional District, said his office helped departments navigate the grant process to make sure their applications had the best shot at success.
The district covers Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Tioga, and parts of Erie, Steuben, Schuyler, and Niagara counties.
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