Washington, D.C. - U.S. Representative Bud Cramer (D-Ala.) announced today that two fire departments in Colbert County will receive a total of $66,504 from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.  The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States and is administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office for Domestic Preparedness in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.

The Locust Shores Volunteer Fire, Inc. will receive $55,104 and the Cherokee Rescue Squad will receive $11,400 for operations and firefighter safety.

"I'm pleased that the Department of Homeland Security awarded this funding," said Cramer.  "Everyday our firefighters put themselves on the front lines and it is important that they have the equipment and training they need to protect our lives and our property.  This funding is a good shot in the arm for our firefighters in Colbert County and it will go a long way in helping them continue to protect our area."

Representative Cramer was a cosponsor of the Firefighter Investment and Response Enhancement Act (FIRE Act).  The FIRE Act is the first comprehensive national legislation dedicated to meet the needs of America's 32,000 volunteer, paid, and part-paid fire departments.  The bill created and funded the "Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program."  Under this competitive grant program, funds are awarded directly to local fire departments based on demonstrated financial need for activities such as training, to purchase vehicles and equipment, to fund fire prevention programs, and for wellness and fitness programs for firefighting personnel.