Rep. Sherrill Joins Essex Fire Departments for $600,000 AFG Award Announcement

AFG Grant Award Announcement at Bloomfield Fire Station No. 3

Bloomfield, NJ — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) joined Essex County fire service members today at Bloomfield Fire Station No. 3 to announce $600,000 in FEMA Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) awarded to six fire departments in Essex County. These grants include a regional award for the training of 100 fire officers to obtain Fire Officer 1 Certification and another 100 firefighters to receive rapid intervention training. Rapid intervention teams specialize in the rescue and removal of a trapped or downed firefighter. Bloomfield received an additional grant to implement a Wellness & Fitness program and purchase equipment for cleaning toxic substances from their protective gear.

AFG is one of three FEMA grant programs that focus on enhancing the safety of the public and firefighters. This regional grant for Belleville, Bloomfield, East Orange, Nutley, Orange, and West Orange was the second largest AFG grant awarded in the state of New Jersey this year.

“Our firefighters, EMTs, and other first responders have been on the front lines of the pandemic, responding to emergencies, and have taken on considerable risk to their own lives to help others,” said Representative Sherrill. “We owe it to these brave men and women to give them the best possible training and equipment they need to do their jobs and return home safely. I am hoping to see even more towns apply for the AFG program and my office will continue with our outreach efforts to assist our communities and bring federal dollars back to New Jersey.”

“Our department will greatly benefit from these AFG awards,” said Bloomfield Fire Chief Louis Venezia. “The health and safety of our firefighters is a top priority. Thanks to Congresswoman Sherrill for all of the support she offers the fire service.”

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