WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $104,000 in grants were awarded to Kansas firefighters to improve homeland security in Auburn and Winchester, 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."

• Shawnee County Fire District #2 in Auburn: $76,238 for Fire Operations and Safety
• Jefferson Fire District #10 in Winchester: $28,150 for Fire Operations and Safety

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.