WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.) today announced a $3,599,000 loan from U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development program to expand and renovate the Kingsville Volunteer Fire Company.
“This grant is provides support for the Kingsville VFD so it can be meet the unique challenges that face rural first responders,” said Senator Cardin. “This federal funding greatly increases the ability of the Kingsville VFD to better serve and protect the community, including providing emergency shelter for the community if any man made or natural disaster should occur.”
“I’m on the side of first responders. I believe if you are willing to put your life on the line every day, you should never feel short-changed by your government,” Senator Mikulski said. “I’m proud that these federal dollars will help the Kingsville VFD expand and renovate to help them better serve their community.”
The Kingsville VFD will use this loan to update outdated mechanical and electrical systems, replace the deteriorating roof and increase living and classroom facilities. At this time, they are unable to provide adequate housing and shelter for the community during man-made or natural disasters.
The Rural Development grant program was created to improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. The program helps support essential services and infrastructure improvements, and promotes economic development by supporting loans to businesses through banks and community-managed lending pools.
As a member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, Senator Mikulski fights each year to increase federal funding for volunteer firefighters through fire grants program. In the past, Kingsville has received two grants totaling $340,000 to purchase a new fire engine as well as new turn out gear. Baltimore County Fire Departments have been awarded more than $9 million in grants from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.