MEDIA, PA — Delaware County Fire Departments were in for a treat on May 4 when Council Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer, Councilwoman Christine Reuther, and the Director of Delaware County’s Dept. of Emergency Services, Tim Boyce, handed them a ceremonial check of $1.7M.
Last year, the Delaware County Council passed a resolution to deploy American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds worth $1.75M for local fire departments. These grants, up to $25,000 for each of the 60 qualified fire companies, were granted to help overcome operational losses due to COVID-19 revenue shortages. It was remarkable for all involved to note that not a single member of the council opposed these outlays.
“Delaware County’s First Responders have been our true Front-Line Heroes over the past three years during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Delaware County Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer. “They served our residents with immense bravery and dedication during a time when the rest of the world was quarantining and social distancing to keep themselves safe.”
Local fire companies depend on volunteers and fundraising to keep their operations going. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has curtailed many of their fundraising efforts. The County has authorized grants to help these companies offset the financial hardships they’ve faced. These grants will provide much-needed support to ensure these heroes can continue to protect communities.
“Our First Responders have made enormous sacrifices during the pandemic and these grants will allow them to continue to focus on providing essential lifesaving services and protecting our community,” said Director of Delaware County’s Department of Emergency Services, Tim Boyce.
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