WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that two Maine fire departments will receive grant awards: the Auburn Fire Department will receive $86,074, and the Ellsworth Fire Department will receive $11,790. These funds have been allocated for operations and safety purposes.  

“These grants have a significant impact on the ability of our local fire departments to provide their communities with essential safety services – particularly in small, rural areas,” Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. “In order for our first responders to perform their duties, they must have access to the necessary resources, such as vehicles and equipment, and proper training. These funds will play a key role in ensuring that those needs are met and that our fire departments are well equipped to meet the demands of their job.”

Both fire departments are receiving the funding through 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 the departments’ facilities.

The Ellsworth Fire Department provides vital primary fire protection and rescue services to more than 7,000 residents of the City of Ellsworth and participates in mutual aid program with 28 towns throughout Hancock County. The 50 members of the Auburn Fire Department respond to an average of 450 calls a year and have a strong tradition of training and working cooperatively with other departments in the region.

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