Seventeen fire companies and emergency medical services (EMS) providers in Pennsylvania’s 101st Legislative District will receive a total of $238,397 in state grants, according to an announcement by Rep. John Schlegel (R-Lebanon). The funding comes from the state Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program.
Schlegel stated, “The grants are the local share of about $37 million that is being disbursed statewide through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. The funding will help to ensure our local fire companies and emergency medical services providers, will continue to be there for us in our time of emergency.”
Grant recipients include Community Fire Co. of Cornwall Borough, Glenn Lebanon Fire Co., Goodwill Fire Engine and Hose Co. No.5, Independent Fire Co., Lebanon Chemical Engine and Insurance Patrol Co. No.1, Lebanon Fire Dept., Lebanon Fire Dept. First Aid and Safety Patrol, Lebanon Hook and Ladder Co., Mount Gretna Community Vol. Fire Co., Neversink Fire Co., Perseverance Fire Co., Quentin Vol. Fire Co., Rescue Hose Co. No.4, Rural Security Fire Co., South Lebanon Fire Co. No.1, Speedwell Engine and Hose Co., and Union Steam Fire Engine and Hose Co.
The grants can be used for purposes such as construction or renovation of stations, purchasing or repairing equipment, training, debt reduction, education and public outreach efforts, as well as staff recruitment and retention initiatives. All fire companies, EMS services, and volunteer rescue squads are eligible to apply for these annual grants which are funded solely through state gaming proceeds rather than General Fund tax money.
Rep. Schlegel represents the 101st Legislative District in Lebanon County and serves on House committees related to education, children and youth issues, human services, aging and older adult services; he also leads the subcommittee on career and technical education. He has experience teaching at multiple educational levels from kindergarten through graduate school as well as serving in administrative roles like assistant principal and principal. Schlegel holds degrees from Kutztown University (bachelor’s), Millersville University (master’s), and Temple University (doctorate), participates in community groups such as the American Heart Association of Lebanon County and Lebanon County Christian Ministries according to his official website.
