Senators Peters, Stabenow Announce $3.7 Million Grant for Flint Firefighters

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI)  and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced that the City of Flint will receive $3,767,280 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program. From February 2014 to February 2016, the City of Flint lost 33 firefighters. This funding will help restore all 33 firefighters and bring the total number of firefighters in the city to 91.

“Families in Flint need our support and protection now more than ever,” said Senator Peters. “I am pleased that the City of Flint will receive the funding it needs to fill firefighter vacancies and promote safety and security in the community.” 

“Given the challenges facing Flint, these new resources come at a critical time to help with the city’s recovery,” said Senator Stabenow. “Thanks to this grant, the city can bring 33 firefighters back to work protecting our families, homes, and neighborhoods.”

“This grant is a great news for the City of Flint,” said Raymond Barton, City of Flint Fire Chief. “Thanks to the support of Senator Stabenow and Senator Peters, we will be able to add additional protection to the south side of the city and ensure that we are meeting the standards needed to safeguard our community.”

Eligible fire departments in Michigan and across the country can apply for Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grants. These competitive grants provide money to guarantee departments are appropriately staffed with qualified professional and volunteer firefighters. More information about the grant can be found at http://www.fema.gov/staffing-adequate-fire-emergency-response-grants.