03/01/11 Monday, Congressman Joe Donnelly announced that the Union-Lakeville Fire Department will receive an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) award through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

“I’m pleased to announce this significant investment in the safety of the Lakeville community,” said Donnelly.  “The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program helps strengthen first responders’ ability to best protect those they serve and themselves, so I am proud to support north central Indiana fire departments’ efforts to receive these competitive awards.  I congratulate the Lakeville Fire Department on earning the AFG award and thank all first responders for their service and sacrifice.”

Awarded through the Operations and Safety Program Area of the AFG awards, the Lakeville Fire Department was awarded $128,535.  This funding can be used for training, equipment, personal protective equipment, wellness and fitness, and health and safety modifications to stations and facilities.

The purpose of the AFG Program is to award funding directly to fire departments and EMS organizations that are unaffiliated with a hospital to improve their ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first responders.  Through a competitive process overseen by experts in the fire service field, AFG grants are awarded to applicants whose requests best address the priorities of the AFG Program.  For more information, visit the AFG Program’s website.