Press Release of Senator Lugar Franklin Township Fire Department receives $210,320 fire grant Wednesday, July 28, 2010 U.S. Sen. Dick Lugar was notified that the Franklin Township Fire Department in Marion County will receive a grant totaling $210,320 for operations and safety. The grants are through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program.   “First responders are the backbone of our communities and it is vital to ensure they have the proper equipment and training,” Lugar said.   In Fiscal Year 2009, AFG was administered by FEMA’s Grant Programs Directorate in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. The AFG program provides grants on a competitive basis to rural, urban and suburban fire departments throughout the United States.   Fire departments with questions about the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program may reach the fire grants help desk toll free at 1-866-274-0960 or firegrants@dhs.gov.  For the most current information regarding the AFGP, visit www.firegrantsupport.com.   Questions regarding the application process may be directed to Andrew Mills, Grants Coordinator, by phone at 202-224-4814 or by email at grants@lugar.senate.gov.   ###