Area Firefighters, EMS Get $300K in COVID Grants

Nearly $300,000 in grant funding that will be awarded to 10 local fire, rescue and EMS companies in the region to help offset expenses accrued because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through Act 26, the state made $50 million in grants available to fire and emergency medical services organizations affected by the coronavirus, as announced last week by Governor Tom Wolf. The funding can be used for operational and equipment expenses.

“As somebody who very recently needed the assistance of firefighters at my house because of a gas leak, I speak with even greater admiration of and appreciation for the men and women who work tirelessly and selflessly to keep us safe in emergency situations,” said state Rep. Joe Ciresi, D-146th Dist., whose office issued a release announcing the grants.

“This funding through CARES Act grants will provide valuable support to these companies in their ongoing efforts to protect our communities and residents," Ciresi said.

“Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, our office has remained open to provide the necessary resources that our fire service and EMS personnel need to fulfill a critical public safety role throughout the commonwealth," state fire commissioner Bruce Trego said in the release. 

"Departments have been exceptionally patient during this process, as our office has worked through changing federal guidance dictating how these dollars can be spent,” Trego said.

In the 146th Legislative District, grants totaling $292,939 were awarded as follows:

• Goodwill Steam Fire Engine Co. No. 1 (Pottstown) – $39,021.
• Limerick Fire Dept. – $36,842.
• North End Fire Co. (Pottstown) – $25,342.
• Perkiomen Township Fire Co. – $25,342.
• Royersford Fire Dept. – $36,842.
• Trappe Fire Co. No. 1 – $40,119.
• Friendship HLH&A Inc. (Royersford) – $15,048.
• Empire Hook & Ladder Co. No. 1 (Pottstown) – $23,973.
• Philadelphia Steam Fire Engine Co. No. 1 (Pottstown) – $25,068.
• Ringing Hill Fire Co. (Lower Pottsgrove) – $25,342.

“I offer heartfelt congratulations to these companies and the heroes who work for them,” Ciresi said. 

“In my opinion, it is not possible to overvalue what fire, rescue and EMS mean to me, our district and the many people and businesses who’ve needed – or might eventually need – their assistance," said Ciresi. "Thank you for all you do.”

In response to his recent gas leak scare, Ciresi positioned his district office at 301 N. Lewis Road, Suite 140C, in Royersford to accept donations of new carbon monoxide detectors that will be distributed to local fire companies.