Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has announced $45,333 in a Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) for the Essex Fire Department, led by Fire Chief Craig Jackson. This new funding will be used to purchase updated and enhanced firefighting gear, including the purchase of 17 complete sets of structural firefighting gear (helmet, coat, pants, gloves, and boots.)
“North Country firefighters serve our communities selflessly and keep us safe day in and day out,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “It is absolutely critical they have the funding they need to effectively do their jobs while also keeping themselves safe. I’m grateful that Craig Jackson and the entire Essex Fire Department will be receiving this Assistance to Firefighters Grant, and I’m proud to advocate for Essex County and the full North Country firefighting community in Congress.”
“We are very pleased to finally receive this grant; this was our second attempt at applying,” said Essex Fire Chief Craig Jackson. “Once the gear is received, it will replace about 85% of gear that is damaged or considered outdated according to NFPA. I would like to thank the Essex Fire District #1 Board of Fire Commissioners for their support in our almost 2-year effort to secure this much needed funding.”
The Essex Fire Department, established in the early 1800's, has 20 volunteer firefighters serving a 37 square-mile area, including 6 miles of waterfront. The Department averages 85 calls for service a year, many of which are mutual-aid responses to neighboring Fire Districts.
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