Northern Tier News

Feb 12, 2024

BRADFORD – Fire and emergency response organizations in Cameron, McKean, and Potter counties have received over $492,000 in grants from the state, according to an announcement made by Rep. Martin Causer (R-Cameron/McKean/Potter). The grants aim to support these organizations financially as they continue to serve and protect their communities.

Causer expressed his gratitude for the hard work and dedication of the men and women who work tirelessly to keep the communities safe. He acknowledged the challenges faced by fire and EMS companies in keeping their operations running smoothly and emphasized the importance of providing them with the necessary financial support.

The grants are a result of an ongoing grant program established by the Legislature and administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). It is worth noting that the funding for these grants comes from the proceeds of slot machine gaming, rather than from General Fund tax revenue.

Since the inception of the program, a total of $8.7 million has been allocated to fire and ambulance companies in the three-county area. The grants can be used for various purposes such as the construction or renovation of facilities, equipment purchase or repair, training, and debt reduction.

Causer provided a list of local fire and ambulance companies that have received grant awards. He mentioned that all companies that meet the requirements outlined by the OSFC are eligible for funding. It is mandatory for these companies to file a grant agreement with the OFSC in order to receive their grants.

Some of the local fire and ambulance companies that received grant awards include:

- Cameron County Ambulance Service Inc., Emporium – $10,000.

- Emporium Fire Department Inc., Emporium – $13,061.55.

- Bradford City Fire Department, Bradford – $15,000 for EMS operations; $16,951.99 for fire company operations.

- Bradford Township Volunteer Fire Department, Bradford – $16,951.99.

- Coudersport Volunteer Ambulance Association, Coudersport – $15,000.

- Coudersport Volunteer Fire Department, Coudersport – $15,784.85.

The grants have a significant impact on these organizations, enabling them to enhance their services and better serve their communities. The financial support provided by the grants ensures that these fire and ambulance companies can continue their operations effectively.

Representative Martin T. Causer stated, "We owe a great debt of gratitude to the men and women who work so hard to protect our communities, and I am pleased we can continue to support them with this valuable funding."

The grants not only benefit the fire and ambulance companies but also contribute to the overall safety and well-being of the communities they serve. The financial assistance allows these organizations to invest in necessary equipment, training programs, and facility improvements, ultimately improving their emergency response capabilities.

With the support of these grants, fire and emergency response organizations in Cameron, McKean, and Potter counties will be better equipped to handle emergencies and provide critical services to their respective communities.

For more information, please visit RepCauser.com or Facebook.com/RepCauser.

Media Contact:

Patricia A. Hippler

717.772.9846

phippler@pahousegop.com