WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $590,100 in nine grants were awarded to Kansas firefighters 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.”

• Andover Fire and Rescue:$15,276 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Osage County Fire District #3 in Melvern: $203,300 for Vehicle Acquisition

• Overland Park Fire Department: $130,599 for Fire Operations and Safety

• City of Topeka: $32,000 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Allen County Rural Volunteer Fire Department in Iola: $28,556 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Nemaha County Rural Fire District #4 in Bern: $18,905 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Beaver Volunteer Fire Department: $29,925 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Pleasanton Fire Department: $34,200 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Wabaunsee County Fire District #3 in Harveyville: $97,375 for Fire Operations and Safety

The funds were awarded by the 2009 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.

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