Washington, Nov 15, 2005 -

U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) is pleased to announce that the Liberty Hill Volunteer Fire Department has been awarded a grant by the United States Fire Administration (USFA).

Over the next five years the Liberty Hill Volunteer Fire Department will receive $276,995.

The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants support the hiring of full-time firefighters and the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.  An appropriated $65 million will be awarded this year to increase the number of firefighters and 24-hour staff available to volunteer, combination and career fire departments. 

“I commend the men and women who protect the citizens of District 31,” Carter said. “This grant will provide the Liberty Hill Volunteer Fire Department with better training and the resources needed to safeguard the community.”

Over 2,980 fire departments applied for SAFER grant awards this year.  Of the 1,700 applicants considered, an estimated 125 grants will be awarded.

USFA is a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency within the Department of Homeland Security.