Delaware County Presents $1.7M Check to Local Fire Departments

Released: May 5, 2023

Delaware County Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer, Councilwoman Christine Reuther, and Director of Delaware County’s Department of Emergency Services, Tim Boyce presented a $1.7M ceremonial check to members of Delaware County Fire Departments on May 4 at the Delaware County Emergency Services building in Middletown.

Last fall, in a unanimous vote, Delaware County Council authorized using up to $1,750,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to provide grants to local fire departments across the county. More than 60 active fire companies were eligible for grants worth up to $25,000 for their operational needs. The funds were designed to replace lost revenues and supplement fund-raising efforts adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Delaware County’s First Responders have been our true Front-Line Heroes over the past three years during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Delaware County Council Vice Chair Elaine Paul Schaefer. “They served our residents with immense bravery and dedication during a time when the rest of the world was quarantining and social distancing to keep themselves safe.”

Many local fire companies rely on volunteers and fundraising to keep their operations afloat and many fundraising efforts were curtailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grants that the County has authorized will provide them with funds that can help offset the financial hardships they have faced.

“Our First Responders have made enormous sacrifices during the pandemic and these grants will allow them to continue to focus on providing essential lifesaving services and protecting our community,” said Director of Delaware County’s Department of Emergency Services, Tim Boyce.