FUNDING FOR VOLUNTEER FIRE, AMBULANCE SERVICES GETS SUPPORT

          HARRISBURG, June 18 – State Sen. LeAnna Washington (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) said she is pleased that the Senate last week unanimously approved legislation that would reauthorize the $25 million Volunteer Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Act for five years.

          “Thousands of men and women throughout Pennsylvania volunteer their time as first responders, and they deserve our support,” Washington said. “I applaud the Senate for recognizing their noble efforts and their dedication to their communities.”

          Funded through gaming taxes, the grant money can be used for construction and/or renovation of a company’s facility, fixtures and furniture; repair or purchase of fire-fighting or ambulance equipment; debt reduction; and training and certification of members. 

          “It is so important that our volunteers are properly trained and that they have the proper equipment,” Washington said. “With this bill, they can be assured that state funding is there for them.”