Laurel Highlands Today

State Representatives Ryan Warner and Charity Grimm Krupa have announced the allocation of $642,670 in state grants to fire and ambulance services in Fayette County. This funding is intended to support the public safety mission of these organizations.

Warner expressed gratitude for the work of local emergency service personnel, stating, "We are blessed by the outstanding fire and emergency service personnel who selflessly serve our communities, protecting lives and property." He added that the grants aim to alleviate financial pressures faced by these organizations.

Grimm Krupa emphasized the importance of first responders, saying, "We owe our safety and peace of mind to our first responders. This funding will help our EMTs, paramedics and firefighters maintain their high standards of safety, preparedness and organizational survival."

The grant program is funded through slot machine gaming revenue rather than General Fund tax revenue. The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Office of the State Fire Commissioner administer it. Eligible uses for the grants include construction or renovation projects, equipment purchase or repair, training programs, recruitment efforts, retention initiatives, or debt reduction. Organizations must file a grant agreement with OSFC to receive their funds.

Among those receiving grants are Adah Volunteer Fire Department with $25,739.88; Brownsville Ambulance Service Inc., which received $15,000; and Union Hose Company No. 1 Volunteer Fire Company with $14,815.77.

These funds are expected to enhance safety measures across Fayette County's emergency services.