FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – The Fort Wayne Fire Department received some big gifts this week.
On Monday, Mayor Tom Henry and Fire Chief Eric Lahey announced that the Fort Wayne Fire Department has been awarded an Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) from the Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The $982,938 award will help the department replace 190 radios. Command and administrative operations will receive 40 new radios and 150 radios will go toward fire suppression and EMT services operations. The Fort Wayne Fire Department will contribute $98,293 in matching funds.
The FWFD is testing newer radio models before making a final purchase. The new radios will be certified as intrinsically safe, which is particularly helpful for firefighters.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for our department and will assist in keeping our firefighters safe,” said Chief Lahey. “We’re appreciative of the grant, and the new radios will make a lasting and meaningful difference in our daily efforts to protect the community.”
Shawn Fort, research and grants manager for the City of Fort Wayne and Mike Reichard, technical director of Fort Wayne 911 communications and radio shop were instrumental in Fort Wayne receiving the grant. Their expertise and leadership are valued and appreciated.
Additionally, the FWFD was the recipient of a $24,777.32 grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation®.
The funding will be applied toward the purchase of two Holmatro Combi-Tools & Accessories, which will be used to ensure greater life-saving capabilities for first responders in the community.
“We are grateful to Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation and our local Firehouse Subs in Fort Wayne for awarding us this grant,” said Fort Wayne Fire Chief Eric Lahey. “By providing Holmatro Combi-Tools & Accessories, our first responders will be able to help the residents of Fort Wayne during emergency situations.”
During the most recent grant cycle, the Foundation awarded 126 grants to public safety organizations nationwide. The 126 grants totaling nearly $2.7 million were given to organizations in need of critical lifesaving equipment and resources.
To donate and learn more about Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, click here.
