Southwest Allegheny News

Fire and emergency response organizations in Pennsylvania's 44th Legislative District have received a significant boost in funding. Rep. Valerie Gaydos (R-Allegheny) announced today that these organizations have been awarded a total of $151,026 in grants from the state. The funding comes from an ongoing grant program created by the Legislature and administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) and Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC).

"We need to do all we can to support our volunteer fire companies and emergency medical service (EMS) providers," said Gaydos, a former emergency medical technician (EMT). "They keep us safe 24/7 and deserve this funding to ensure they have the equipment and training necessary to continue the important work of protecting lives and property."

The grants awarded within the 44th District will be distributed to various organizations. Among them are Aleppo Township Volunteer Fire Company, Big Sewickley Creek Volunteer Fire Department, Cochran Hose Company, Crescent Township Volunteer Fire Department, Imperial Volunteer Fire Department, Leetsdale Fire Department, Moon Township Volunteer Fire Company, North Fayette Township Volunteer Fire Department, Quaker Valley Ambulance Authority (EMS), and Valley Ambulance Authority (EMS).

These grants will be used for a range of projects, including the construction or renovation of fire or ambulance company facilities, the purchase or repair of equipment, training, or the reduction of existing debt. All companies that apply and meet the requirements outlined by OSFC will receive funding. However, they must file a grant agreement with OFSC by July 1 to receive their grants.

This initiative is particularly important for volunteer fire companies and EMS providers who rely on limited resources to fulfill their crucial roles in the community. The funding from the grant program will enable them to enhance their capabilities and ensure that they can continue to serve and protect the residents of the 44th District effectively.

In announcing the grants, Rep. Gaydos emphasized the significance of supporting these first responders: "They keep us safe 24/7 and deserve this funding to ensure they have the equipment and training necessary to continue the important work of protecting lives and property."

The grants are a testament to the commitment of the Pennsylvania Legislature to prioritize the safety and well-being of its citizens. By allocating funds from the proceeds of slot machine gaming rather than relying on General Fund tax revenue, the state is demonstrating its dedication to supporting first responders and ensuring their continued readiness.

The grants awarded to the fire and emergency response organizations in the 44th Legislative District will undoubtedly make a significant difference in their operations. With improved facilities, equipment, and training, these organizations will be better equipped to respond to emergencies and safeguard the lives and property of the community they serve.

The importance of these grants cannot be understated, as they provide a lifeline to these organizations that rely heavily on community support and limited resources. They will enable the first responders to continue their critical work with even greater effectiveness and efficiency.

Overall, the grants announced by Rep. Valerie Gaydos represent a substantial investment in the safety and well-being of the 44th District. By providing essential funding to fire and emergency response organizations, the state is ensuring that these organizations have the resources they need to serve and protect their communities. These grants are a testament to the unwavering commitment of Pennsylvania's legislators to the safety and security of their constituents.

For more information, please visit RepGaydos.com or Facebook.com/RepGaydos.

Media Contact:

Rick Leiner

717.260.6437

rleiner@pahousegop.com