Rep. Larson Announces Federal Grant to Benefit East Hartford Fire Department

EAST HARTFORD, Connecticut, Sept. 6 -- Rep. John B. Larson, D-Connecticut, issued the following news release:

Today, Congressman John B. Larson announced that the East Hartford Fire Department will receive a $60,000 grant from the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The AFG program supports critical needs such as operations, safety, vehicle acquisition, and emergency personnel training. The East Hartford Fire Department will use these funds to purchase washing and drying units designed to reduce the presence of cancer-causing contaminants.

"I commend Mayor Leclerc and Chief Oates for putting together a winning application. This grant will greatly benefit the Town of East Hartford and its fire department. As a life-long resident of East Hartford, where my father served as a firefighter, I am especially pleased that some of East Hartford's bravest will receive the resources they need to safely serve the town. These funds will ensure that they have the training and supplies to better assist the East Hartford community, and keep themselves safe to effectively do their job. It is crucial that we continue to invest in those that put their own lives on the line for us, and I will continue to fight for them down in Washington," said Larson.

"I am pleased to know that the East Hartford Fire Department is receiving a $60,000-grant from the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency," said Mayor Marcia Leclerc. "We worked tirelessly on the grant application and I am proud to know that our efforts paid off. This grant funding will help install washing and drying units in multiple fire stations to remove the combustion and grime from firefighters' protective clothing. The health and well-being of the East Hartford Fire Department's personnel is instrumental in ensuring safety of our community and the grant will help to do just that."

"This grant will provide an immediate impact on our ability to ensure the health and safety of our members. This project will install washing and drying units in multiple fire stations to remove the dirt, grime, and products of combustion from firefighter protective clothing. This effort is supported by the current research that shows clean PPE reduces the likelihood of contracting occupational cancer; preserves the community's investment in high quality protective clothing; and helps ensure our members are fully prepared to serve the citizens and visitors of East Hartford. We are grateful for the steadfast support of Congressman Larson, as well as the entire Connecticut delegation's support of the AFG program. We deeply appreciate the continued support from Mayor Leclerc and the East Hartford Town Council as the East Hartford Fire Department continues to look for areas where we can better serve our community," said Chief Oates.