September 12, 2022

Wyden, Merkley: Nearly $2.6 Million in Federal Funds for Oregon Firefighting Aid

Federal resources will head to fire districts in Tenmile, Sweet Home, Junction City, Eugene, Glide, Rockaway Beach, Evans Valley, Columbia City, Clackamas County and Albany


Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that 10 Oregon fire districts will receive a combined $2.58 million in federal Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG).


“Local firefighters working hard to protect lives and livelihoods throughout Oregon deserve topnotch equipment to stay safe while they’re putting themselves at risk defending communities around the state,” Wyden said. “The importance of this federal investment in Oregon is especially timely given firefighters’ heroic work this summer battling blazes that still threaten our state. I’ll keep battling to make sure firefighters have the resources they need now and in the years ahead.”


“Oregon’s firefighters work tirelessly, risking their lives to keep our homes, businesses, and communities safe— it is imperative that they receive the federal support needed to do this important work,” said Senator Merkley. “This funding will help ensure that the dedicated firefighters across the state are well equipped and prepared to keep protecting the Oregonians they serve in every corner of our State.” 


AFG grants help firefighters and first responders obtain essential resources to enhance their response capabilities and to more effectively protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel from fire and other related hazards. The Oregon communities receiving these grants are as follows:


·       Tenmile Fire District, $36,341


·       Sweet Home Fire And Ambulance District, $216,277


·       Junction City Rural Fire Protection District, $20,377


·       City of Eugene, $469,356


·       Glide Rural Fire Protection District, $11,428


·       City of Rockaway Beach, $185,714


·       Evans Valley Fire District #6, $43,371


·       Columbia City, $23,309


·       Clackamas County Fire District No. 1, $934,522


·       City of Albany, $642,727