Fire Funds To Nez Perce And Moyie Springs,

Washington, DC â?? The Nez Perce and Curley Creek, Idaho fire departments will receive grants from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, according to Idaho Senator Mike Crapo. â??These grants will enhance the ability of these two rural fire departments to respond more effectively to fire and fire-related hazards in their surrounding areas,â?? said Crapo. â??The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program has received a $390 million boost for Fiscal Year 2003. These grant awards will substantially increase the effectiveness of firefighting efforts, and augment EMS and safety and fire prevention programs throughout the nation.â??â??Rural fire departments in Idaho benefit significantly from this federal grant program. Many struggle to provide comprehensive services to the communities they serve, and federal funds fill in the financial gaps,â?? noted Crapo. â??The federal share of $46,530 for the Nez Perce Rural Fire Protection District has been designated for Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety â?? a timely grant as fire season is upon us. The federal share of $42,480 for the Curley Creek Volunteer Fire District earmarked for a firefighting vehicle will also provide additional needed support for first responders in the Moyie Springs area.â??In 2003, there are four programs supported by the Assistance to Firefighter Grant, including the Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program, the Fire Prevention Program, the Emergency Medical Services Program, and the Firefighting Vehicles Acquisition Program. According to the Department of Homeland Security, funding priorities for each of the activities were based on recommendations from nine major fire service organizations. The applications were peer-reviewed for compatibility with funding priorities, with selections completed by early last month.The Department of Homeland Security required applicants to demonstrate financial need, and outline the benefits that would be gained if given the money. Grantees that serve jurisdictions of 50,000 or fewer residents are required to provide a cost-share of 10 percent, and grantees serving jurisdictions of more than 50,000 must provide a 30 percent cost-share. $7 million has been awarded to fire departments nationwide under this program this week.# # #