When the Alpha Fire Company rolls out its new fire engine this summer, there will be a nice set of shiny new tools waiting for it.
Alpha Fire Company is one of nine local emergency agencies that will receive state funding through the state fire commissioner’s grant program. The organization will receive $15,000, which will outfit the new engine with hydraulic tools.
“This is a grant we apply for and get every year,” said Steve Bair, fire director with Alpha Fire Company. “But this year, it’s a little more than we’ve received in the past. We’re thankful for that.”
Bellefonte Emergency Medical Services is also receiving a grant of $7,448.21 to reduce company debt.
“We’re going to use these funds to help pay the building mortgage and some other debt we’ve developed,” said Scott Rhoat, BEMS executive director and chief. “When we get grants like this, typically we use them to reduce our debt. We’re very appreciative to get money like this. We’ve been struggling, and any little bit helps.”
According to state Rep. Kerry Benninghoff, R-Bellefonte, the funding comes from an ongoing grant program created by the legislature and administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Office of the State Fire Commissioner. All of the funding comes from the proceeds from slot machine gaming and not General Fund tax revenue.
“Those dedicating their time to these organizations make it their selfless mission to protect and serve the rest of us,” said Benninghoff. “I am grateful for their bravery, sacrifice and willingness to serve their communities in this way, and congratulate them on these awards. Important to note, none of the funding used to support this important grant program comes from our tax dollars.”
Every emergency service organization that completes the application process receives funding. Projects eligible for funding include construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training or reduction of existing debt.
In addition to Alpha Fire Company and BEMS, 12 other organizations received funding through the program, including, in Centre County:
■ Boalsburg Fire Co., $15,000
■ Logan Fire Co. No. 1, $15,000
■ Millheim Fire Co. No. 1, $12,098
■ Pleasant Gap Fire Co. No. 1, $15,000
■ Pleasant Gap Emergency Medical Services, $7,448.21
■ Undine Fire Co. No. 2, $13,902.60
■ Walker Township Fire Co., $14,417.24.
In Mifflin County, recipients were:
■ Belleville Fire Co., $12,358.68
■ Decatur Fire Co. No. 1, $12,101.36
■ Milroy Hose Co., $14,159.92
■ Milroy Emergency Medical Services, $7,448.21
■ Reedsville Fire Co., $13,387.96
