WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced $433,000 in grants were awarded to Kansas firefighters to improve homeland security in Maple Hill, Hutchinson, Altamont, Ottawa and Atlanta, KS.

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."

• Wabaunsee County Fire District #4 in Maple Hill: $23,937 for Fire Operations and Safety
• City of Hutchinson Fire Department: $52,169 for Fire Operations and Safety
• Altamont Fire Department: $62,501 for Fire Operations and Safety
• Ottawa Fire Department: $48,355 for Fire Operations and Safety
• Cowley County Fire District #2 in Atlanta: $246,713 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.