Two local fire departments receive funds for new vehicles

Aug. 24--Two Cambria County fire departments will receive Department of Homeland Security Assistance to Firefighter Grants to obtain emergency vehicles totaling nearly $800,000, according to a press release from U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster, R-Hollidaysburg.

Hope Fire Company in Northern Cambria and Ashville Volunteer Fire Company received the grants to acquire new vehicles, Shuster said.

Ashville's grant for $476,191 will be used to replace two pieces of equipment -- a 1987 tanker and a 1997 engine -- with a single multipurpose 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 multipurpose vehicle, which would save hundreds of thousands of dollars," said Joe Racz, Ashville fire chief.

"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 will use $309,524 in federal funds to purchase a new tanker.

"This grant comes at a very good time for the department," said Matt Barczak, treasurer.

"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."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant was established in 2001 and 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.

Jocelyn Brumbaugh is a reporter for the Tribune-Democrat. Follow her on Twitter @JBrumbaughTD.

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