Grant money helps Valley fire companies

By CHRISTINE HAINES

chaines@yourmvi.com

Two dozen area fire companies and ambulance services are receiving state grants to help them meet the costs of providing service. 

All fire and ambulance services in the state are eligible to apply for the annual Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program, though not all apply every year.

Stockdale Fire Chief Tom Wilkinson said some departments are intimidated by the paperwork or feel that the amount received, usually around $12,000 per fire department though they may apply for up to $30,000, is insignificant in light of the size of their expenses.

“I’ve helped other fire companies with their paperwork because not everyone is comfortable filling that out,” Wilkinson said.

The Stockdale fire department is receiving $23,733.23, which Wilkinson said will be used for debt reduction for past equipment purchases.

“The reason ours is higher is because we merged with Allenport, so we get Stockdale and Allenport’s money for 10 years. That’s how they get people to merge,” Wilkinson said.

Elizabeth Volunteer Fire Company is receiving $15,000. Fire Chief Chad Rager said the funds will go toward the final payment on the department’s rescue truck.

“We’ll be able to use it for something else next year,” he said.

Rager said his department qualifies for a bit more money because of the number of department members who have their Firefighter 1 and 2 certifications.

“The more qualified guys you have, the more money you’re qualified to receive,” he explained.

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