Crapo Urges Non-Profits, Fire Departments To Apply For Grants

Washington, DC â??Idaho Senator Mike Crapo urged Idaho fire prevention groups today to apply for a portion of $27.5 million being offered in Fire Prevention and Safety Grants by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Applications for the funds, which are being offered as part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, will be accepted through September 30, 2004. â??The residents of Idaho are familiar with the threats posed by fire,â?? Crapo said. â??Idaho had 1,462 residential fires in 2002, resulting in 46 injuries, eight deaths and $15.6 million in damages. These grants provide needed funds for fire prevention and safety programs to organizations with expertise in those areas. The deadline for these grants is fast approaching. I urge any organizations in Idaho, including Fire Departments, who think they may qualify for these grants to submit an application. â?? Private and public national, state, local and community organizations dedicated to reducing the effects of fire and fire related incidents are eligible to apply. The grant program is part of over $700 million that will be awarded through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to help local fire departments purchase equipment, fund health and safety programs, enhance emergency medical services programs, and conduct fire education and prevention programs. Interested organizations are encouraged to submit an online application located at https://portal.fema.gov. Further information on the 2004 Fire Prevention and Safety Grants is available at http://www.firegrantsupport.com. In addition, applicants can contact the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program staff via phone or email, (866) 274-0960 or firegrants@dhs.gov, with questions. # # #