WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that two Maine fire departments will receive a combined $135,836 in federal grants from the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG). Specifically, the funding will come through AFG's Operations and Firefighting Safety Program, which provides funding for training, equipment, wellness and fitness, and modifications to department facilities.

The Augusta Fire Department will receive $129,029 in funding, and the Brownfield Volunteer Fire Department will receive $6,807 in funding.

"These grants are a critical resource for Maine fire departments and the dedicated fire and rescue personnel who serve our communities," Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. "In order for our first responders to perform their duties, it's essential that they have access to the resources they need, such vehicles, equipment, and proper training,"

"This grant money will be used to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatuses, which will greatly improve firefighter safety and enhance our ability to respond to incidents," said Roger Audette, Chief of the Augusta Fire Department.  "Safety is our number one priority, and this program is critical for local tax relief as fire departments across the country struggle to replace, maintain and repair the equipment we need to respond. We thank Senator Susan Collins and Senator Angus King for their commitment to Maine's first responders and responders across this country."

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