City of Edinburg secures FEMA SAFER Grant to enhance fire and emergency response capabilities
Edinburg, TX –The City of Edinburg is announcing its successful acquisition of the Fiscal Year 2022 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant, a crucial initiative offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This significant grant award, totaling $1,068,068.36, carries no local match requirement and is set to fortify the Edinburg Fire Department (EFD) in its mission to ensure the safety and well-being of the community. With these funds, Edinburg will be able to recruit and retain four additional firefighters, ensuring a robust staffing and deployment capability for the Edinburg Fire Department over a three-year period, from February 26, 2024, through February 25, 2027.
The FEMA SAFER Grant program is specially designed to bolster the capabilities of local fire departments, equipping them with the necessary resources to respond effectively to emergencies. Edinburg's successful grant application is a testament to the city's commitment to providing top-notch emergency services to its residents.
These dedicated firefighters will play a pivotal role in addressing the evolving needs of the community, enhancing EFD's capacity to respond swiftly and efficiently to fire and emergency situations. Since 2004, the Edinburg Fire Department has experienced substantial growth, evolving from a team of just six paid firefighters to a highly skilled and capable force of 81 now dedicated to safeguarding the city. The acquisition of the FEMA SAFER Grant will take the department to 85 firefighters, representing a significant milestone in this journey. It underscores Edinburg's commitment to ensuring the highest level of safety for all its citizens.
These additional firefighters will contribute to EFD's critical functions, ensuring that the city receives timely assistance during emergencies. Their presence will improve response times, enhance rescue operations, and bolster Edinburg’s overall emergency preparedness. The City of Edinburg extends its gratitude to FEMA for recognizing the department’s commitment to public safety and for investing in the future well-being of the community.