East End Volunteer Fire Department received a $14,800 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service through the Rural VFD Assistance Program to purchase new rescue tools.
“There are two stations in the area and this equipment is going to the one that currently has limited equipment, said East End VFD Fire Chief Bob Gary. “ It will be mainly used for extractions in motor vehicle accidents.”
The city of Jasper has two major roads in their area, U.S. Highway 190 and state Highway 63. A bill recently passed that will approve a new road, Interstate 14. With the new increased traffic, East End VFD will be prepared for any motor vehicle accidents that might occur due to increased traffic.
“TFS grant programs are extremely important to volunteer fire departments,” said Gary. “Without the grant funds we would not be able to purchase new equipment needed for our stations.”
Volunteer firefighters operate 85 percent of the fire departments in Texas. This year Texas A&M Forest Service will pass approximately $24.3 million to VFDs across the state. The grants aid them in purchasing equipment and obtaining vital firefighter training, giving them greater capabilities to protect life and property in their communities.
To learn more about this program visit texasfd.com.