U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-Hamilton) today announced that the Lakehurst Volunteer Fire Department has received a $261,200 grant from the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Office for Domestic Preparedness. The Lakehurst Department will use the grant to purchase a new fire engine – a pumper.

    The funds, distributed on behalf of Office of State and Local Government Coordination and Preparedness – in collaboration with the U.S. Fire Administration at the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – were provided through the Assistance to Firefighter Grant (AFG) program. The purpose of the AFG Program is to award one-year grants directly to fire departments and emergency medical services (EMS), enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies and potential terror attacks in their communities. All of America’s 32,000 paid, volunteer and partial-paid departments are eligible for the grants. 

    “Hurricane Katrina has again reminded us that local first-responders can never be ‘too prepared’,” Smith said. “In the aftermath of such a catastrophe, and as another anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks approaches, it is essential that the federal government continue to partner with and support local fire and emergency teams.” 

    As the dean of New Jersey’s Congressional Delegation, Smith has worked with his colleagues to steer critical homeland security dollars to the state. In FY2005 alone, New Jersey, state agencies and authorities, and companies have been allocated $60,811,154 in homeland security grants. 

    “Every day, our fire fighters and emergency responders work to keep our communities safe and secure,” said Smith. “This money will enable the Lakehurst Fire department to purchase a new engine that would have otherwise been unaffordable,” he continued. “Lakehurst’s bravest will put their new pumper to good use, enabling them to effectively respond to any future emergencies.”