LANGHORNE, PA – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), announced he has secured $163,666.66 in federal funding for the Sellersville Fire Department through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.
Since 2001, the AFG Program has awarded approximately $8.4 billion in grant funding to provide critically needed resources that equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, enhance operational efficiencies, foster interoperability, and support community resilience.
This FY23 grant will provide Sellersville Fire Department the opportunity for much-needed upgrades and the modernization of their aging Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)—critical gear that safeguards and ensures our hero firefighters remain safe in hazardous conditions. Commonly known as air packs, SCBAs are crucial for protecting firefighters by providing breathable air in smoke-filled and toxic environments. The new SCBA units feature cutting-edge technology and enhanced safety features that the Department's current gear is not equipped with. The grant funds will facilitate the acquisition of 14 SCBA harnesses, 28 air bottles, 14 facepieces, and a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) pack, which will significantly bolster their firefighting capabilities.
“Receiving this grant is a tremendous boost for our department,” said Kurt Wagner, Fire Chief of Sellersville Fire Department. “Our current SCBA equipment, which has served us well over the years, is reaching the end of its operational life. This grant allows us to replace it with modern, reliable technology that will ensure our firefighters have the best protection available. We are immensely grateful to FEMA for their support.”
“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus and a certified EMT, it has been one of my missions in Congress to ensure our hero firefighters have the resources and support they need to protect our community with the utmost safety and effectiveness. Since 1888, the Sellersville Fire Department has selflessly served and safeguarded our community, and it is unacceptable for them to be without the crucial and lifesaving gear they need while putting their lives on the line. Securing this vital funding represents not just an investment in equipment but an investment in the safety of our courageous firefighters and the resilience of our entire community. I am proud to fight for these remarkable men and women and look forward to continuing to work alongside them to develop solutions and provide the support they need in their efforts to serve and protect our community,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1).
About Sellersville Fire Department:
Established June 7th, 1888, the Sellersville Volunteer Fire Company, has worked tirelessly to serve our community for over the past 100 years. From the onset, their mission is to protect their citizens, visitors, and community property from the risk of fire, explosions, and other hazardous conditions through aggressive fire investigations, fire suppression, fire code enforcement, and fire prevention education.
###