HARRISBURG – Rep. Larry O. Sather (R-Huntingdon) says volunteer fire, rescue and ambulance companies should apply now for their share of the state’s new $25 million Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Program.
“Pennsylvania has recognized that our volunteer emergency responders need some financial support now more than ever to help them do their jobs to the best of their ability,” said Sather, who sponsored the enabling legislation (House Bill 8) to establish the grant program. “These funds will help the heroes of our community be properly equipped and prepared.”
The first step in the application process is to submit the W-9 form recently mailed to all eligible volunteer fire and EMS units in the state by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OFSC). The form must be received by the OFSC no later than Sept. 30. Eligible organizations that have not received the information packet from OFSC by Sept. 5 should call 1-800-670-3473 to request a copy.
A web-based program is being developed for the second step of the application process to allow applicants to enter their grant project information online and receive verification that the information is complete, valid and entered into the grant system. The online process will be available no later than Oct. 31. Paper submissions will also be accepted, but they are not recommended.
Under the program, volunteer fire companies can receive grants of $2,500 to $15,000, and ambulance units can receive grants from $2,500 to $10,000. Eligible projects include construction and/or renovation of a company’s facility; purchase or repair of fixtures and furnishings necessary to maintain or improve the capability of the company to provide fire, ambulance and rescue, emergency medical, or basic and advance life support service; purchase or repair of firefighting, ambulance or rescue equipment; debt reduction; and training and certification of members.
Volunteer fire and EMS companies have until Dec. 31, 2003, to apply for a grant. Additional information and instructions for the second phase of the application process will be made available in mid-October through direct mailings.
For more information, visit the OSFC Web site at www.osfc.state.pa.us.
