Northhampton News

Rep. Milou Mackenzie (R-Lehigh/Montgomery/Northampton) has announced that a total of $256,988.29 in grant awards has been awarded to fire and emergency medical services departments in the 131st Legislative District, benefiting the communities across Lehigh, Montgomery, and Northampton counties.

In a statement, Mackenzie expressed her gratitude for the first responders in the community, saying, "This grant funding will offer critical assistance to the courageous first responders within our community. Our dedicated firefighters and EMS personnel demonstrate unwavering commitment in safeguarding our lives and our property. Access to modern equipment and comprehensive training is essential for these heroes to fulfill their vital roles effectively. Again, I thank them for being brave!"

The grants were distributed to various departments in the three counties:

In Northampton County, Lower Saucon Fire Rescue in Bethlehem was awarded $55,951.99.

In Lehigh County, Upper Saucon Township Volunteer Fire Dept #1 in Center Valley was awarded $16,951.99, Upper Saucon Ambulance Corps in Center Valley was awarded $12,000, Coopersburg Fire Company No. 1 was awarded $16,562.94, Lower Milford Township Fire Co. No. 1 in Limeport was awarded $16,757.46, Upper Milford Western District Fire Co. in Old Zionsville was awarded $15,000, Citizens Fire Company of Upper Milford in Emmaus received $14,228.68, and Eastern Salisbury Fire Ambulance and Rescue Company in Allentown was awarded $15,006.77.

In Montgomery County, East Greenville Fire Co. No. 1 was awarded $15,590.33, Upper Perkiomen Valley Ambulance Association in Pennsburg was awarded $15,000, Pennsburg Fire Co. No. 1 was awarded $16,951.99, Red Hill Fire Company was awarded $15,000, Green Lane Fire Company was awarded $14,034.16, and Tylersport Volunteer Fire Company was awarded $16,951.99.

These grants will be used to fund essential equipment, training programs, and facility upgrades. The investments aim to enhance the readiness and effectiveness of local fire and EMS departments in responding to emergencies and ensuring the safety of residents.

The funding for these grants comes from an ongoing grant program created by the Legislature and administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). Importantly, all funding comes from proceeds from slot machine gaming and not from General Fund tax revenue.

Mackenzie highlighted that projects eligible for funding include the construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, the purchase or repair of equipment, training, or the reduction of existing debt. All companies that apply and meet requirements outlined by OSFC receive funding. Companies are required to file a grant agreement with OSFC to receive their grants.

This investment in the local fire and EMS departments will undoubtedly contribute to the safety and well-being of the communities in the 131st Legislative District.