Schumer pushes for F.D. grants

New York Senator Charles Schumer announced  his push to increase funding for grant programs that would buy Long Island volunteer fire departments modern and essential equipment on Dec. 14. The senator met with various members of the Fire District Association at the Seaford Fire Department’s headquarters on Southard Avenue to discuss his plan of action last week.

“The firefighters are like our domestic soldiers,” Schumer said. “They volunteer and risk their lives for our safety.”

After the meeting at the department, Schumer was scheduled to take a flight to Washington and fight for the funding as a part of the final national budget deal. The funds would aid fire departments in acquiring new equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles and help with the recruitment of firefighters, which can cost thousands of dollars.

“Just recently, we were able to get a grant for people who go to college and work 40 hours at the firehouse,” Schumer said. “This will help get money off of their tuition and it brings in younger people to volunteer. Once they come, they usually stay and see the camaraderie and sense of duty that our firefighters have.”

East Meadow Fire Department Chief James Kane said that many volunteers within the community have taken advantage of this program. He explained that the grant money has made it possible for local young men and women to get an education, continue living in the area and, of course, join the East Meadow Fire Department, all at the same time.

“It has allowed us to retain more members because that affordability keeps them here,” he said. “It allows them to stay here in our community so they can continue to volunteer with us, keeping residents safe… It’s a win-win for everybody.”

With Seaford being one of the districts to suffer from cuts to grants it used to receive, Schumer also made it a point to speak at the department alongside the county chief’s council and other fire leaders. “One of the problems our firefighters have is that the equipment has become much more expensive,” Schumer said.