WASHINGTON, DC– U.S. Senator Pat Roberts today announced over $369,400 in eight 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.”

• Grenola Fire Department: $33,250 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Butler County Fire District #8 in Douglass: $15,542 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Belle Plaine EMS: $119,890 for Vehicle Acquisition

• Shawnee Fire Department: $65,920 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Pratt County Township #6 in Preston: $43,677 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Ellinwood Fire Department: $18,611 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Clark County Fire District #1 - Ashland Division: $37,473 for Fire Operations and Safety

• Netawaka Rural Fire District #6: $35,038 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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