Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C, Elma) says grant funding for four volunteer fire departments in the 60th NYS Senate District will help improve facilities, response capabilities, and emergency preparedness. The local funding is part of the state’s $25-million investment in V-FIRE, the Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment Grant Program, designed to offset the cost of rising equipment and construction costs that many volunteer departments face.

“Nearly half off all New Yorkers rely on dedicated volunteers for fire protection and emergency response, especially in rural communities throughout Erie County,” Senator Gallivan said. “This investment will help ensure volunteer fire departments have the facilities and tools they need to keep our communities safe while reducing the burden on local taxpayers.”

Local grant recipients include:

Village of Angola Fire Department, $1,000,000

Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Company, $453,849

Town of Eden Fire District, $373,911

Village of Lancaster, $22,025

The State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services administers the grant program. Funding can be used for the construction of new fire stations or renovation of existing facilities, and equipment purchases that support firefighter health, safety, and wellness. 

Additionally, V-FIRE grants also support the consolidation of fire service resources through regionalization efforts, allowing departments to expand their capabilities beyond traditional jurisdictional boundaries to enhance local, county, and statewide mutual aid response.

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