Emergency responders in Pennsylvania’s 71st Legislative District will receive more than $353,000 in grants, according to state Rep. Jim Rigby (R-Cambria/Somerset). The funding will benefit fire and ambulance services across Cambria and Somerset counties.
“As our emergency responders across the Commonwealth struggle to remain viable as costs rise and the number of volunteers dwindles, this funding is critical. Each dollar dedicated to fire and ambulance companies makes a real difference to the safety of our communities in the 71st District,” Rigby said.
The grants will be distributed among several organizations, including Ashville Fire Company, Adams Township Volunteer Fire Companies (Dunlo and St. Michael), East Hills Ambulance, Forest Hills Area Ambulance, Gallitzin Fire Department, Keystone Regional Fire/Rescue Department, Northern Regional Fire Station, Oakland Volunteer Fire Company, Portage Volunteer Fire Company, Richland Township Fire Department, Riverside Volunteer Fire Department, South Fork Fire Company, Summerhill Township Volunteer Fire Company, West Hills Regional Fire Department and Windber Fire Company No. 1.
Funding for these grants comes from state gaming proceeds and revenue from the Fireworks Tax rather than from General Fund tax dollars. The program was established by the Legislature and is managed by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner.
James Rigby serves as the state representative for the 71st Legislative District according to his official website. He represents areas in Cambria and Somerset counties including specific townships and boroughs. Rigby has contributed to community service through roles in local government and organizations aiding domestic violence victims as noted on his official site. His legislative focus includes committee assignments related to communications, judiciary matters, liquor control and veterans affairs according to his profile. He also aims to address community needs such as the opioid epidemic and blighted homes while drawing on his public service experience as detailed online.
Questions about these grants or other state government issues can be directed to Rep. Rigby’s offices in Cresson, Ferndale or Somerset County.
