Volusia County Fire Rescue receives FEMA grant
Posted On: July 2, 2020
Volusia County Fire Rescue has received $240,909.09 in federal funds to purchase personal protective equipment and supplies for its firefighters, paramedics and emergency medical technicians.
The funding was made available through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant – COVID-19 Supplemental Program, which is overseen by FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. Applications were accepted nationwide from eligible fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations and state fire training academies.
The CARES Act authorized $100 million in fiscal year 2020 Assistance to Firefighters Grants for the purchase of personal protective equipment and related supplies for the nation’s first responders. FEMA has awarded $17,764,651 to date and will continue to award grants until the $100 million is allocated. To date, Volusia County is one of six localities in Florida to receive a grant award.
According the Joe Pozzo, Volusia County’s public protection director, the grant will be used to purchase 180 powered air-purifying respirators and 20 associated battery packs and filter cartridges.
“Fire and EMS responders are on the front line of emergency and disaster response,” Pozzo said. “This critical equipment will enhance our ability to protect the health and safety of our staff and the public during the COVID-19 health emergency.”
