WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $626,163 in grants were awarded to Kansas firefighters to improve homeland security in Sawyer, St. George, Johnson County and Burrton.

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."

• Sawyer Rural Fire Department: $272,175 for Vehicle Acquisition
• St. George Township-City Fire District #10: $78,888 for Fire Operations and Safety
• Johnson County Med-Act in Olathe: $79,400 for Fire Operations and Safety
• Burrton CFD #5: $195,700 for Vehicle Acquisition

The funds were awarded by the 2006 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.