BENTONVILLE - U.S. Senators Mark Pryor and John Boozman, along with Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) today announced that the Bentonville Fire Department will receive a $142,200 grant from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters (AFG) Program to purchase life-saving air packs. 

“When others run out of burning buildings, firefighters run in and put their lives on the line to protect the community,” Pryor said. “This grant will help ensure the Bentonville Fire Department has the necessary equipment to keep our firefighters safe. It’s a smart federal investment for the local fire department and the Bentonville community.”

“We must provide our firefighters with the resources they need to stay safe while responding to emergencies,” Boozman said. “These funds will help Bentonville firefighters continue their commitment to the community while protecting themselves and Arkansas families.”

“This grant – as it has for several fire departments across the Third District – will help further provide the Bentonville Fire Department with the critical tools and equipment needed to protect its firefighters as they continue to diligently serve their community,” Womack said. 

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is an important component of the larger, coordinated effort to strengthen the nation’s overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards. 

AFG provides fire departments with the tools and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and emergency response personnel.  Since 2001, AFG has provided over $5 billion in grants for emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles, and training.