Hughes Springs VFD to receive grant

The Hughes Springs Volunteer Fire Department was awarded a federal grant of $56,533.33 to enhance local fire prevention and safety efforts, U.S. Sen. John Cornyn announced Tuesday, Sept. 15.

The funding comes through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG), which aims to strengthen the nation’s overall level of preparedness and ability to respond to fire and related hazards.

“As our first responders are handling unprecedented crises, the federal government should make sure they have every resource they need to keep Texans safe,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I’ll continue to do everything I can to support firefighters in Hughes Springs.”

When asked if the Hughes Springs Fire Department would apply for the grant, Stephen Barnes, city manager for Hughes Springs said that Fire Chief Jay Cates had applied for the grant in 2019.

“We are very appreciative of the grant funds and the opportunity to upgrade equipment for the fire department. They will be used to purchase self-contained breathing apparatuses, which include harnesses/backpacks, face-pieces and cylinders.”