Rep. Mike Thompson Announces Over $98,000 in Grant Funding for South Coast Fire Protection District

Congressman Mike Thompson (CA-1) today announced that the South Coast Fire Protection District will receive $98,317 in grant funding to help local first responders obtain emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles, and training. The funds, which are provided through the Department of Homeland Security's Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, will ensure local fire departments have the resources they need to protect the health and safety of our community.

“Last week, our community saw firsthand how destructive a natural disaster can be,” said Rep. Thompson. “Times may be tough, but we simply can't afford to cut funding for our firefighters and first responders. This grant will help ensure that the volunteer fire departments in Redwood Coast, South Coast, Sea Ranch, and Timber Cove have the resources they need to stay prepared and keep our communities safe.”

"South Coast Volunteer Fire is thrilled to have received this grant funding, which will be used to purchase new breathing apparatuses for our departments," said Leighton Nelsen, Fire Chief. "This equipment will help ensure the safety of our volunteers as they enter burning buildings to rescue members of the public. Our top priorities are public safety and the safety of our wonderful volunteers."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is an important component of a larger, coordinated effort to strengthen our nation's overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards. Nationwide, this competitive grant program will award approximately $390 million to first-responder organizations that need support to improve their response capabilities.