WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $476,283 to Newark Fire Department. The funding – awarded through FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) – Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Program – will be used to hire and retain firefighters.

“Firefighters keep our communities safe and provide peace of mind for families during emergencies. This award will help hire more first responders in Newark to protect families and homes from fire hazards,” said Brown. “With so many communities already facing budget shortfalls, critical federal efforts like AFG and SAFER are pivotal in keeping our Ohio cities, towns, and villages safe.”

The SAFER grant program supports the hiring of firefighters and the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters. More information about the program can be found here. Interested fire departments can contact Brown’s grant coordinator to receive information about federal grant opportunities by clicking here.

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