Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) announced today that the Badger Volunteer Fire Department will receive $83,705 from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program. This funding will be used to purchase new protective clothing, also called “bunker gear,” because the clothing is traditionally kept by the firefighter’s bunk at the fire station.
“Firefighters like those at Badger Volunteer Fire Department play a central role in our communities,” Johnson said. “It is important that our firefighters are safe while they save lives. I am pleased that they have received this vital funding for the protective gear.”
The Department of Homeland Security’s AFG program provides grants directly to fire departments and emergency medical service organizations to enhance their ability to protect the health and safety of the public in regards to fire and fire-related hazards.
Senator Johnson crafted his Hometown Prosperity Plan to highlight the importance of this kind of funding. This plan consists of four pillars for advancing South Dakota's economy from the federal level. The four pillars include “Promoting Partnerships,” “Emphasizing Entrepreneurship,” “Investing in the Public Good,” and “Protecting Pocketbooks.” The full plan includes specific actions related to each strategy and can be downloaded from http://johnson.senate.gov.
