Shuster Congratulates Two Cambria County Fire Departments on New Vehicle Grants

HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. - U.S. Representative Bill Shuster (R-Hollidaysburg) announced today that two Cambria County fire departments will be receiving Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) to obtain emergency vehicles, totaling close to $800,000.

"Today I'm excited to announce that Hope Fire Company in Northern Cambria and Ashville Volunteer Fire Company in Cambria County have received major grants for acquiring new vehicles," said Congressman Shuster.

Ashville Volunteer Fire Company in Cambria County has been awarded a vehicle acquisition grant for $476,191. The station will use the funds to replace two pieces of equipment they own, a 1987 tanker and a 1997 engine, with a single multi-purpose combination vehicle.

"While planning long-term for the department, we realized with or without a grant both vehicles would have to be replaced, and it would be in the best interest of the community and taxpayers to replace both vehicles with a multi-purpose vehicle, which would save hundreds of thousands of dollars," said Ashville Fire Chief Joe Racz. "We thank Congressman Shuster for his support throughout this grant process and helping the department acquire a long-term investment for the Ashville area communities. This vehicle should be able to be put to good use for at least the next two decades."

Hope Fire Company, also in Cambria County, will be receiving $309,524 in federal funds through a vehicle acquisition grant. The station will use the funds to purchase a new tanker.

"This grant comes at a very good time for the department," said Treasurer Matt Barczak. "We're fortunate to keep growing as a department, and we'd like to thank Congressman Shuster for his continued support. Thanks to this grant, we will be better able to serve the community and our growing coverage area."

Established in 2001, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant is designed to help meet the needs of firefighters, emergency responders, and emergency medical organizations. Funds from the AFG are used to purchase a variety of critical emergency service supplies including new equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and additional resources that local departments need to continue protecting the public.

Read this original document at: https://shuster.house.gov/press-releases/shuster-congratulates-two-cambria-county-fire-departments-on-new-vehicle-grants/