The AFG program
It has started again! The Department of Homeland Security has begun announcing funding through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. It's very encouraging to hear the list of those getting these grants. It's also disheartening that a number of departments which applied for a grant won't be successful. However, in the end, the grant program remains one of the best things that the federal government has done for the fire service. Dozens of fire departments in the Arrowhead Region have benefited from this program and I truly believe it has made us better in our profession. We now have modern equipment from personnel protective gear to brand new apparatus.
The program would not be successful if it were not for the support from our federal lawmakers. Both "sides of the aisle" have come out with high praise for the AFG program and when it comes to making sure that the program is adequately funded, we have seen both major political parties in our corner. When you see our elected federal folks, make sure you thank them for their strong support of this program. And while you're at it, if your new AFG funded equipment is nearby, make sure they see it as well. Seeing is believing and the AFG program and its results are certainly worth showing off.