Gov. Wolf announces $50 million in grants for fire, rescue and EMS companies

Pennsylvania’s fire, rescue and EMS companies will be eligible for $50 million worth of grant funding through the Office of State Fire Commissioner, Gov. Tom Wolf announced on Thursday.

The CARES Act grants will be allocated to the companies to help offset expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Wolf.

“Our fire, rescue and EMS are the first responders often on the front-lines of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Gov. Wolf said. “All these professionals – some working as volunteers – give selflessly to support neighbors and communities. These CARES Act grants can assist in supporting them and their ongoing efforts to keep their neighbors and communities protected and safe.”

Of the $50 million, $44 million will be given to fire and rescue companies and the remaining $6 million to EMS.

Fire Commissioner Bruce Trego said his office remained open to provide resources to fire services and EMS personnel.

“Departments have been exceptionally patient during this process, as our office has worked through changing federal guidance dictating how these dollars can be spent,” Trego said.

The money from the grants can be used to pay for expenses for clearing, sanitizing and disinfecting equipment and property and operational expenses such as utilities, insurance and personal protective equipment.