State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) today announced that the Portland Fire Department was approved this week to receive a $208,720 AFG, or “Assistance To Firefighters Grant,” from the federal government. Portland firefighters will now be able to use upgraded breathing apparatuses to keep them safe while fighting fires. Supplied by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, this grant is one of many distributed nationwide to support first responders.
“I’m extremely grateful to the federal leaders who authorized this grant and the firefighters and first responders who continue to keep our communities safe every day,” said Sen. Needleman. “This grant will fund replacements and upgrades for the department to be better protected against smoke inhalation and other threats members regularly experience. I’m thankful that our community will receive this support.”