WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $360,000 in grants were awarded to Kansas firefighters to improve homeland security in Columbus and Kansas City.

Senator Roberts said, "I am pleased to announce these funds, which are vital to improve firefighting efforts and first responder needs in rural Kansas. It’s imperative to support our local fire departments."

• Columbus Fire Department in Cherokee County: $10,365 for Fire Prevention
• Kansas City, Kansas Housing Authority: $250,699 for Fire Prevention

The funds were awarded by the 2005 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program under the United States Department of Homeland Security. The program assists rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.