The Richland Volunteer Fire Company will receive a federal grant of $ 8,550. The FEMA Grant has been provided to the Richland Fire Department to purchase items, such as hoses, ladders and ventilation fans.

U.S. Congressman Frank LoBiondo, who was instrumental in hosting a seminar by FEMA and Congressional Fire Institute officials, announced the Federal Emergency Management Agency grants on September 25, 2001.

"Firefighters are a tremendous resource and, in the wake of the terrorist attacks on our nation, we must appreciate their efforts much more for their great dedication to service," Lobiondo said.

In addition to the Richland Volunteer Fire Company, six area fire departments will also receive federal grants totaling more than $ 193,300 to purchase new equipment. The FEMA program will distribute more than $100 million in grants nationally through the current federal fiscal year, which ends September 30, 2001.