Kaptur Announces Major AFG Award for Defiance County’s Ney-Washington Township Fire DepartmentPress Release

Defiance, Ohio - Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that the Ney-Washington Township Fire Department has been awarded $671,428 through the Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. This critical funding will be used to enhance the fire department's emergency response capabilities through the acquisition of a new tanker/pumper vehicle. The new state-of-the-art tanker/pumper unit is essential for maintaining and improving emergency response operations. This vehicle will provide the department with the capability to effectively combat fires and address other emergencies, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.

"The safety of our communities depends on the bravery and preparedness of our first responders. We need to make sure that they have the tools needed to do a difficult job," said Congresswoman Kaptur (OH-09). "This new tanker/pumper will greatly enhance the department's ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, safeguarding the residents of Ney, Washington Township, and the surrounding areas. I am proud to see this award come back to Defiance County, and I will never stop fighting to bring resources and funding home to enhance the safety of our communities across Northwest Ohio."

Chief Justin Sheets of the Washington Township Fire Department expressed his gratitude for the award, stating, "Ney-Washington Township Fire Department is honored and grateful to receive this vital funding for the acquisition of a new tanker/pumper. This award is a significant investment in the safety and well-being of our community, ensuring that our firefighters have the necessary resources to effectively respond to emergencies. We thank Congresswoman Kaptur and her team for their continued support and commitment to enhancing public safety."

The AFG Program, administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in collaboration with the US Fire Administration, provides vital resources to fire departments and emergency medical services organizations across the nation. Since its inception in 2001, the AFG Program has allocated over $8.4 Billion in awards to ensure that first responders are equipped with the necessary tools and training to protect the health and safety of both emergency personnel and the communities they serve. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program continues to play a crucial role in supporting first responders across the country, ensuring they have the equipment, training, and resources necessary to carry out their lifesaving missions.

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