WASHINGTON, DC — In an effort to help strengthen Lincoln's emergency response capabilities, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that the Saylesville Fire District is receiving over $105,425 in federal funds to help cover the cost of an additional firefighter over the next five years.

"I am pleased to have helped secure this federal funding so that Lincoln can meet its on-duty force needs," said Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee. "This federal investment will help the Saylesville Fire District bolster its force and provide the services the district requires."

The money comes from the fiscal year (FY) 2007 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill, which Reed supported in order to ensure that Rhode Island's fire departments have the resources they need.

"I am grateful to Senator Reed for working hard to make certain that Lincoln has the money to add another firefighter to our force. The Saylesville Fire District will now have 4 full-time firefighters on duty with this hire," said Saylesville Fire District Chief David Almond.

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program awards Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants through the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to local fire departments and emergency responders, enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies. SAFER supports local departments by enabling them to expand the number of firefighters available to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public with respect to fire and all other hazards.

Each February, Senator Reed hosts his annual workshop to assist Rhode Island fire departments that are interested in applying for the grants. Communities across Rhode Island have won awards from the federal program since Reed began his workshops.