Southwest Allegheny News

Fire and emergency response organizations in Pennsylvania's 44th Legislative District have been awarded nearly $113,000 in grants, as announced by Representative Valerie Gaydos. The funding is part of a grant program created by the state legislature and administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). The funds are sourced from slot machine gaming revenues.

According to Gaydos, every emergency service organization that completes the application process receives funding. Eligible projects for these grants include construction or renovation of facilities, equipment purchase or repair, training, and debt reduction.

"We need to do all we can to support our volunteer fire companies and emergency medical service (EMS) providers," said Gaydos, who has experience as a former emergency medical technician. She emphasized the significant burdens faced by volunteer first responders.

The following local fire companies and EMS agencies received grants: Aleppo Township Volunteer Fire Company ($13,581), Cochran Hose Company ($15,000), Crescent Township Volunteer Fire Department ($12,353), Fair Oaks Volunteer Fire Protective Association ($12,353), Leetsdale Fire Department ($12,598), Moon Township Volunteer Fire Department ($12,418), North Fayette Township Volunteer Fire Department ($14,318), Quaker Valley Ambulance Authority ($10,000), and Valley Ambulance Authority ($10,000).

The OSFC oversees financial assistance programs designed to enhance the capabilities of fire, ambulance, and rescue organizations across the state. Organizations are reminded that paperwork must be submitted to retain eligibility for future grants by the end of May.