WASHINGTON, D.C. – April 18, 2013 – (RealEstateRama) — U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski (IL-3) announced today that the Garden Homes Fire Protection District, serving portions of unincorporated Cook County near Alsip, Merrionette Park and Chicago, has received a $34,043 grant from the Department of Homeland Security to purchase new equipment to assist firefighters responding to fires and incidents involving hazardous materials. The grant will allow the fire protection district to purchase a new compressor and filling station for self-contained breathing apparatus.
“Our first responders play a critical role in keeping our communities safe. Providing them with the equipment they need to do their jobs is one of my highest priorities,” Rep. Lipinski said. “I’m proud to announce this grant that will improve safety at the Garden Homes Fire Protection District and better serve area residents and businesses.”
The grant is awarded through the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. In the 2012 fiscal year, the program will award approximately $337.5 million to fire departments and EMS organizations nationwide to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel.
“We appreciate Rep. Lipinski’s assistance with this grant that will allow us to upgrade equipment vital to the safety of the men and women of the Garden Homes Fire Protection District,” said Garden Homes Fire Protection District Chief Rick Koopman. “We are thankful for the congressman’s work on behalf of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program and look forward to continuing to provide top-notch service and care to our community.”
For more information on the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, visit www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program.
