McConnell Delivers for Somerset First Responders

Statement

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced today that the Somerset Fire Department (SFD) received a $429,000 competitive federal grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). With these federal resources, SFD plans to hire and train four new firefighters to protect the Somerset community.

Senator McConnell contacted FEMA in support of his constituents' grant application and their mission to improve the safety and efficiency of the community's emergency response services.

"It's a great privilege to partner with Kentucky's brave first responders who put themselves in harm's way to protect their neighbors, and I congratulate the Somerset Fire Department on this grant award," said Senator McConnell. "Bolstering the existing force with new firefighters will help protect Somerset families and continue the department's reputation for excellence. It's my responsibility to be our state's voice in Washington, and as Senate Majority Leader, I'm able to draw national attention to Kentucky's priorities, like this one. I'm grateful to Chief Jasper and the entire SFD for their commitment to serve."

"I want to thank Senator McConnell and his staff for their recommendation for the Somerset Fire Department in the Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) grant process," said Somerset Fire Chief Stephen Jasper. "The federal grant process is extremely competitive and I am very thankful that the Somerset Fire Department was able to receive this grant award. This grant will allow the Department to hire 4 additional full-time firefighters and will greatly increase our emergency response capability and provide the citizens of Somerset and Pulaski County with safer and more efficient fire and rescue operations. I believe Senator McConnell's support and attention to our application increased our chances on receiving this award."

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