Washington – Congressman Bill Shuster is pleased to announce that the Markleysburg Henry-Clay Volunteer Fire Department has been awarded a Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) in the amount of $59,375. The funds will be used to purchase new equipment for 20 firefighters.

“This is great news for the first responders at Markleysburg Henry-Clay Volunteer Fire Department and the people they serve and protect every day,” Shuster said.  “This funding will allow them to buy new fire resistant gear and provide the necessary equipment to keep their active duty firefighters safe while making Fayette County, a safer place to live.”

The grant money will be put towards the purchase of 20 sets of turnout gear, which consist of fire resistant boots, helmets, gloves, Nomex hoods, pants, and coats.

“The newest set of gear that we own is 13-years-old and the recommended use for the gear is around 10 years, so this fire grant was sorely needed.  I’d like to thank Congressman Shuster and all the officials who made it possible to help us get this new equipment,” said Markleysburg Henry-Clay Fire Chief Curt Hager.

The primary goal of the AFG is to meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations. Since 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders to obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources needed to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

####