Fire and ambulance companies in Schuylkill County were awarded more than $1.4 million in grant funds from the state’s Fire Company and Volunteer Ambulance Service Grant Program.
Money for the program came from state gaming revenue. Funding was for the 2015-16 fiscal year.
In total, $1,416,749.85 was awarded to 118 companies in the county. The amounts ranged from $4,735.70 to $25,289.79. Fire companies were eligible for a minimum of $2,500 and a maximum of $15,000. If the companies merged, they were eligible for more money. Volunteer ambulance companies were eligible for a minimum of $2,500 and a maximum of $10,000.
The online application period was from Sept. 8 to Oct. 22, 2015. Grant agreements were required to be submitted before funds were dispersed. Eligible projects included repairs to firefighting, ambulance or rescue equipment; debt reduction; training and certification of members; construction or renovation of a fire company or ambulance facility; or buying or repairing necessary fixtures for service.
Chris Walters, a member of Mount Carbon Fire Company No. 1, said the money is appreciated,
“It helps tremendously. It’s tough to raise all this on your own. Any extra money you can get helps big time,” he said.
The company was awarded $11,967.12. Walters said the money will be used for fire protection equipment.
Bob Leshko, chief of McAdoo Fire Company Inc., said the department will use its funds — $25,289.79 — for debt reduction on an engine and ladder truck. The fire company has received the funds, he said.
Leshko said the money means less time the firefighters have to devote to fundraisers.
“It’s a tremendous help,” he said.
The company received $15,000 for itself, with the remaining funds awarded to the former Keystone Volunteer Fire Company No. 1, McAdoo. The two companies merged in June 2015. The merger included Tresckow Fire Company, but they were not in Schuylkill County.
Trent Zulick, chief of Schuylkill Hose Company No. 2, Schuylkill Haven, said the company was awarded $13,789.79, which will go to mechanical repairs for a donated 1975 Mac Aerial Tower.
Pat Moran, education coordinator with Schuylkill EMS, said they were awarded $7,201.70. He said it will go toward the purchase of a 2017 ambulance to replace one that is aging. They plan to trade in that ambulance.
State legislative leaders said the grant funding is good news when firefighters are out saving lives.
Rep. Neal P. Goodman, D-123, said the grants will be used to help the firefighters continue the important work they do.
“I am grateful for all the work our fire and EMS companies do, and I’m proud that the state provides this support to them,” he said.
Rep. Jerry Knowles, R-124, said he recognizes the need firefighters have to raise funds for much needed equipment.
“I am glad our area emergency service providers are receiving these state funds to help with their necessary costs,” he said.
Rep. Mike Tobash, R-125, also is thankful for the job these companies do for the community.
“I am glad they are able to receive this funding so they can continue to keep communities safe when emergencies strike,” he said.
State Sen. David Argall, R-29, said the money is going to a good cause — protecting lives in Schuylkill County.
“I applaud the efforts of our local volunteers to secure these state funds and look forward to supporting House Bill 1877,” Argall said,
The three representatives voted in favor of the House bill April 13, which would extend the program. The bill moved on to the Senate.