The Daily Item, Sunbury, PA

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February 4, 2013

Freeburg firefighters get $58,000 federal grant

By Marcia Moore The Daily Item

FREEBURG — The Freeburg Fire Department has been awarded nearly $58,000 in federal grants for operations and safety.

It’s the second year in a row for the small department — its 35 active members responded to 125 fire, rescue, medical and public service calls in 2012 — which received $105,000 for gear and equipment last year.

“It’s like the lottery. Sometimes you get it and sometimes you don’t,” said Deputy Fire Chief Jason Kaufman.

He said the department’s chances for securing the money was aided greatly by the professional grant writer, Jerry Brant, of Johnstown, who is paid $500 for each grant.

In announcing the $57,946 awarded to the Snyder County fire company, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey said, “This money will help provide Snyder County’s firefighters with the resources they need to ensure their safety and the safety of those they serve.”

The funds are awarded through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program to strengthen the health and safety of the nation’s first responders and the people they serve.  

Kaufman said the money will be used to buy training materials, a pump and tank for fighting wildfires, portable and mobile radios and pagers.

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