WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) today announced a grant award from the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program totaling $17,100for the Hammonton Fire Department.

"This federal funding will go a long way to helping ensure firefighters in Hammonton are ready to respond to emergencies," said Senator Menendez. "We are obligated to do everything we can to help our firefighters obtain the appropriate training and equipmentthat helps them work safely and effectively. That's why I have been proud to support the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, which gives all fire departments the chance to receive direct federal aid to better assist and protect our communities."

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. These grants can be invested in training, protective equipment, fitness programs, modifications to facilities, and supplies that support firefighting operations and safety.

For more information about the AFG program, please visit:http://www.fema.gov/firegrants

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