Washington, DC, Oct 16, 2006 - U.S. Representative John Carter (TX-31) announced that the Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department has received a $97,280 grant from the Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program. This Operations and Safety grant will allow the Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department to enhance the safety of the citizens and firefighters in surrounding communities.

“The Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department has worked tirelessly to protect the people of Williamson, Bell, and Milam counties. I commend the citizens who volunteer for going above and beyond to protect their community,” Congressman Carter said. “These federal funds will be instrumental in helping the Bartlett Volunteer Fire Department gain the resources they need to better serve local communities.”

Under Secretary for Preparedness George Foresman said, “The Assistance to Firefighters Grants program has been instrumental in building capacity and has provided needed resources for our nation’s firefighters. From the purchase of equipment to first responder training, the AFG program has had an immensely positive impact on fire related initiatives which has directly resulted in saving lives and property in communities throughout the United States.”

The AFG Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Grants and Training in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.