Crossroads Volunteer Fire Department used the Tennessee American Water Firefighting support grant to purchase a chainsaw. During 2016, the CVFD was burglarized which included the loss of several tools.
Tennessee American Water announces its second round of Firefighting Support Grants to provide financial assistance to uniformed, professional, and volunteer fire departments. Grants of up to $500 will be awarded to cover costs for equipment or training.
“While we provide the water that is used in combating fires, the firefighters are the first responders who need the tools and training to keep our homes and businesses safe,” said Director of Operations Kevin Kruchinski. “With the current extreme weather and the anniversary of September 11, we are reminded of the importance of the firefighters in our communities and the role they play in protecting us.”
Last year’s grant recipients represented municipal and volunteer fire departments in both Tennessee and Georgia.
Tennessee American Water has sent applications to fire departments in the company’s designated service territories, including sale-for-resale areas (Ft. Oglethorpe; Catoosa County; Signal Mountain). Interested parties can email presidentarmstrong@amwater.com with inquiries. Grant applications are due by Oct. 31.
Grants of up to $500 will be considered to cover the costs associated with the following:
Personal protective gear;
Communications equipment;
Firefighting tools;
Water handling equipment, or
Training and related activities/materials used to support community fire protection (Reimbursement for specific fire training classes, including training manuals and workbooks, is eligible).
Mullins Cove Volunteer Fire Department Chief Vincent Vella and Marion County Local Planning Emergency Committee member Robert Payne show the axes bought with the Tennessee American Water Firefighting Support Grant. The axes are useful in clearing brush during wildfires like the ones experienced in 2016.