WASHINGTON – Congressman Bruce Poliquin (ME-02) is announcing a $333,334 grant has been awarded for the Houlton Fire Department to go toward the acquisition of a pumper truck for the department. In November 2016, Congressman Poliquin sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) strongly requesting grant funds for the Houlton Fire Department to replace its 36-year-old pumper truck.

“Our heroic firefighters must have the tools they need to perform their duties and keep our communities safe,” said Congressman Poliquin. “This is significant and welcome support for our brave firefighters in Houlton and I am very pleased with this announcement.”

The grant is awarded through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. The AFG was created to help provide funds for fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations so they can purchase equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other resources to better protect the public and emergency personnel.