NEWARK, NJ – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today announced a combined $397,202 in federal Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) to improve safety and operations in local departments across New Jersey. The AFG program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

“Our first responders risk their lives each day to save ours and we must do everything we can to ensure they have the tools they need to protect their residents and communities,” said Sen. Menendez. “These grants will allow our fire departments to operate more efficiently and ensure our firefighters are properly equipped to protect themselves and keep residents safe.”

"By collaborating at the federal and local levels, we have been able to secure wins for our state’s firefighters amounting to millions of dollars in grants that have translated into more jobs and better protections for those that put their lives on the line to protect us," said Sen. Booker. "I appreciate that FEMA has recognized the critical need for these grants and for the resources and support they provide to the brave men and women of New Jersey."

The following grants were awarded:

• $152,728 City of Passaic Fire Dept. (Passaic)
For new personal protective (turnout) gear

• $74,286 Avon By the Sea Volunteer Fire Dept. (Monmouth)
For safety and operations

• $56,167 Pattenburg Rescue Squad Inc. (Union Twp., Hunterdon)
For safety and operations

• $37,791 Ridgewood Fire Dept. (Bergen)
For wellness and fitness equipment

• $33,700 Manville First Aid and Rescue Squad (Somerset)
For safety and operations

• $25,397 Berkeley Heights Fire Dept. (Union)
For new hazmat suits and a mobile repeater

• $17,143 Bayview Fire Co. (Galloway, Atlantic)
For new portable radios

The AFG program provides funding to enhance response capabilities, as well as to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel.

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