Senators Stabenow, Peters Announce Support for Marquette Fire Department

Thursday, June 18, 2015

U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters today announced $64,629 for the Marquette Fire Department. This grant, which comes through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, will be used to purchase 12 self-contained breathing apparatuses.

"Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our families, homes, and communities safe," said Senator Stabenow. "These new resources will help the Marquette Fire Department buy the breathing sets they need to keep their firefighters safe and protect their community."

"It is critical that first responders have the most up to date tools and equipment to effectively respond to emergencies, and I applaud this funding, which will ensure Marquette has the necessary resources to continue protecting its community," Senator Peters said.

"Being a smaller department we can't overemphasize the importance of this grant program," said City of Marquette Fire Chief Tom Belt. "We are grateful for Senator Stabenow and Senator Peters' constant efforts in support of first responders like ourselves."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program is part of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These competitive grants will help fund professional training programs, update equipment and facilities, and provide new supplies to help first-responders handle hazards efficiently and effectively. More information about the grant can be found at http://www.fema.gov/welcome-assistance-firefighters-grant-program.