WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced a $58,900 grant was awarded to the Hutchinson Community College Fire Service Training program to improve homeland security.

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."

The $58,900 grant was awarded to the Hutchinson Community College Fire Service Training program 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.