Rep. Cole Announces Fire Grant Application Period

WASHINGTON, D.C.--U.S. Congressman Tom Cole (OK-4) announced today that fire departments seeking federal funds can apply for the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) until May 4, 2007.

"Firefighters in Oklahoma have shown great courage and diligence over the past months keeping our communities safe during the many weather related disasters that have impacted our state," Congressman Cole said. "These grants will help them purchase equipment and other resources needed to assist them and keep us safe. I encourage all eligible departments to apply for these federal funds."

Application kits are available at www.firegrantsupport.com. Fire departments that have questions regarding this grant opportunity should contact the Help Desk at 1-866-274-0960 or by email at firegrants@dhs.gov. The Help Desk will operate Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. An online tutorial is available on the website as well as the e-grant application.

The AFG funds are used by the nation's firefighters to increase the effectiveness of firefighting and emergency response operations and to improve firefighter health and safety. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States. In addition the AFG program allows non-fire based EMS organizations to apply for grants.

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