PRESS RELEASE

CHICOPEE FIRE DEPARTMENT RECEIVES FY 2018 FEDERAL GRANT 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICOPEE - Massachusetts Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA),  today announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded through the Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) program $405,587.00 in federal grant aid to the Chicopee Fire Department for 60 SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) and 83 face masks.

“This funding will help provide the Chicopee firefighters with the equipment they need to protect our communities,” said Mayor Richard J. Kos. “Our community is thankful to the Massachusetts Senators for recognizing our need and assisting in keeping our community safe.”

“The Chicopee Fire Department is greatly appreciative for the relief of such burden on both the taxpayers and our city budget,” said Chicopee Fire Chief Daniel Stamborski.

Chicopee Fire Department has been mandated to replace the entire inventory of SCBA (Self Contained Breathing Apparatus) Equipment because the current equipment does not meet NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards, and DOT (Department of Transportation) standards prohibit the servicing of the existing compressed air cylinders after 2020, making this an extremely urgent project.

In June 2019, the Chicopee Fire Department requested and was approved for a portion of the funds for the approximate cost of starting this project while also filing for the grant to fund a portion of the replacement of the SCBA equipment.

"Firefighters in Chicopee and across the Commonwealth work tirelessly to protect our families, and it is our duty to ensure they are well-equipped and supported to continue keeping our communities safe," said Senator Elizabeth Warren. "I remain deeply grateful for their service, and congratulate Mayor Kos and Chief Stamborski on this well-deserved grant."

"Our firefighters are committed to ensuring the safety and security of our towns, and this new funding will enhance their ability to do so," said Senator Ed Markey. "These brave first responders deserve the best equipment and resources available to them so they can continue to assist residents in their time of need. I commend all of the local leaders for their persistence in obtaining these critical federal funds."

"Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect the residents of the cities and towns they serve," said Congressman Richard E. Neal. "With the acquisition of this federal funding, departments in Chicopee, East Longmeadow, and West Springfield will have access to life-saving equipment that will keep them safe while working in dangerous conditions. I am proud to fight for them to make sure their voices are heard and needs are met in Washington."

More information about FEMA’s fire grant programs is available at https://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program

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