Rep. Ackert Applauds Grant for Columbia Firefighters

COLUMBIA – State Representative Tim Ackert (R-Coventry) congratulated the Columbia Volunteer Fire Department as it received a $2,111.70 Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grant from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to purchase much needed equipment.

The grant was awarded through DEEP’s Division of Forestry and the funds were made available by the United States Forest Service. VFA grants are awarded to communities with populations of less than 10,000 to assist them as they purchase expensive fire equipment, conduct training and perform prevention projects.

“I am honored that this wonderful community has been awarded this grant,” Rep. Ackert said. “Volunteer fire departments are vital to the safety of our small towns, and any assistance provided to them is crucial.”

Specifically, the Fire Department will use the grant to purchase flashlights, work gloves, and other equipment, in addition to a two hour course on gas safety.