BOUCHER ANNOUNCES FEDERAL FUNDING FOR

APPALACHIA VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

$261,250 Federal Grant Will Enable the Purchase of New Pumper Truck

            (Washington, D.C.) - U.S. Representative Rick Boucher announced today that, at his urging, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is providing a federal grant in the amount of $261,250 to the Appalachia Volunteer Fire Department.  "This provision of federal funding will enable the Appalachia Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a new pumper truck, which will improve the Department's firefighting capabilities providing an added measure of safety for residents of the Town of Appalachia," Boucher said.   

With the benefit of the federal funds, the Department will purchase a new pumper truck with a 1000 gallon storage tank and the capability to pump 1500 gallons per minute. The new truck is replacing an older model which the department has been unable to operate for two years due to mechanical problems. The new truck will enable the Department to fight fires more efficiently by providing greater water carrying and pumping capabilities.

The Appalachia Volunteer Fire Department provides fire protection to the Town of Appalachia and the surrounding areas in Wise County. The Department is made up of 21 members, all of whom serve on a voluntary basis.

            "I am pleased that the Department of Homeland Security has provided this funding to the Appalachia Volunteer Fire Department.  It is important to ensure that our fire and rescue personnel have access to the best equipment and today's announcement will help further this goal," Boucher concluded.