For Release: Wednesday, November 20, 2002
Contact: Frank Miles: (202) 225-5661

US CONGRESSMAN JERRY COSTELLO AWARDS HERRIN FIRE DEPARTMENT FEMA GRANT

Herrin, Illinois -- On Wednesday, November 20, 2002 U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) announced that the Herrin Fire Department received a $43,027 Assistance to Firefighters grant through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grant will be used by the Herrin Fire Department for portable breathing equipment for its fire fighters. Costello cosponsored the legislation that created the Assistance to Firefighters program last Congress.

At a ceremony on Wednesday at the Herrin Fire Station, Costello awarded Herrin Fire Department officials with a check for the FEMA grant.

Costello is a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He is the ranking Democrat on the Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management Subcommittee.

"Our first responders need adequate resources to do their jobs," said Costello. "Working to ensure public safety must remain our number one priority."

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