Senators Chris Dodd (D-CT) and Joe Lieberman (ID-CT) today announced that the New Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corps will receive $11,773 from the federal Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. “Connecticut’s EMTs and other emergency personnel provide critical—often life-saving—services to our communities,” said Dodd. “This grant will allow the New Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corps to acquire the necessary resources and training that they may not have been able to afford otherwise.”
“I offer my congratulations to the New Canaan Volunteer Ambulance Corp on winning this award,” Lieberman said. “The grant will enable the town’s medical first responders to receive up-to-date training, ensuring they are well prepared to meet the needs of their community. These funds are more important than ever given the tough economic times, and I know the men and women who dedicate their time to serve New Canaan’s emergency medical needs will make good use of the award.”
This funding is provided under the AFG Operations and Safety program. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the Operations and Safety funding may be used for training, equipment, personal protective equipment, modifications to facilities, and wellness/fitness services.
Dodd and Lieberman have a long history of advocating for fire safety. In 2000, Dodd authored, and Lieberman cosponsored, the FIRE Act, which gives local fire departments the ability to purchase new equipment and initiate education and training programs. In 2003, Dodd authored, and Lieberman cosponsored, the SAFER Act, which gives local fire departments the ability to alleviate critical shortfalls in professional and volunteer personnel.
Since the SAFER and FIRE Acts were enacted, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), now part of DHS, has distributed more than 585 grants for a total of more than $63 million in Connecticut to help fire departments strengthen their response capabilities. Dodd and Lieberman have been tireless advocates for increasing federal funding for first responders.
