Press Releases

LOWELL, MA - Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) applauded the awarding of $30,184.76 in federal grant funding to the Devens Fire Department through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program. The funding will be used to purchase protective gear, a washer and dryer, and a thermal imaging camera.

“The Devens Fire Department has consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty these past few months to deliver lifesaving emergency services to their community,” Congresswoman Trahan said. “I am glad to see them awarded this federal investment that recognizes the hard work of these incredible firefighters and will be used to provide for equipment that will keep them safe while they’re on the job.”

“We’re thrilled that the Devens Fire Department is receiving an award from FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants program, and we appreciate Congresswoman Trahan’s continued support for our safety personnel,” said Devens Fire Chief Tim Kelly. “These federal funds will help us provide a higher level of safety for our firefighters – particularly by allowing us to more quickly and effectively remove potentially cancer-causing materials from firefighting gear. As a department who lost a firefighter to occupational cancer, we’re grateful for this support.”

Background: 

Since 2001, FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants have been critical to ensuring that firefighters and first responders have access to necessary equipment and training. Departments have been able to obtain protective gear, emergency vehicles, and training in order for them to continue protecting themselves and those they serve from fire and related hazards.

Congresswoman Trahan has been an avid supporter of the hardworking fire departments across Massachusetts’ Third Congressional District since she took office. During both FY20 and FY21, Congresswoman Trahan assisted in securing funds for the AFG program. Most recently, during the coronavirus pandemic, Congresswoman Trahan voted in favor of the CARES Act, which authorized $100 million for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) and related supplies for first responders. She also voted in support of the Heroes Act which would provide an additional $500 million for the AFG program. 

More information regarding FEMA's Assistance to Firefighters grant programs can be found here: https://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program.

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