GAINESVILLE, FL — Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) announced the Lake City Fire Department’s ‘Assistance To Firefighters’ Grant (AFG) award from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The department will receive $208,261.90 to improve its operations and safety, including using the grant for new protective equipment such as air packs.
The Assistance to Firefighters Grant is one of three grant programs administered by DHS and FEMA to enhance the safety of the public and firefighters with respect to fire and related hazards.
“I’m so excited for our brave men and women in Lake City to have the equipment necessary to help them do their jobs more safely and effectively. Our first responders are heroes and it’s imperative that we ensure they stay safe while serving our communities,” said Congresswoman Cammack. “I couldn’t be prouder of our firefighters in Lake City. As the wife of a firefighter and paramedic myself, I know how deserving our departments are of this grant and I know they’ll continue to demonstrate the very best of our first responder community in North Central Florida.”
“Lake City Fire Department is very excited to receive the AFG award this year to replace our outdated air packs. As a smaller department we are constantly seeking grants to supplement our budget,” said Lake City Fire Chief/Fire Inspector Joshua Wehinger. “This grant will allow us to replace our aging air packs and ensure that we are creating a safe working environment for our firefighters. The support we have received from Congresswoman Cammack has been above any expectations. We are thankful for her support of all first responders. She has made herself very accessible and for that we are thankful.”
In June, Congresswoman Cammack announced Gainesville Fire Rescue’s award of $47,122 and Alachua County Fire Rescue’s $570,954 to improve their operations and safety.
In FY 2020, the AFG program administered nearly $320 million in competitive grants to eligible applicants whose awards would best address the priorities of the AFG program.
The Office of Congresswoman Kat Cammack offers information on federal grant programs available to communities in Florida’s Third Congressional District. To learn more, visit cammack.house.gov or contact the Gainesville District Office at 352-505-0838.
