Watro, Argall Announce More Than $446,000 for Fire, EMS Companies in Luzerne, Schuylkill Counties

HAZLETON - Twenty-eight fire and emergency medical services (EMS) companies in Luzerne and Schuylkill counties were collectively awarded more than $446,000 in funding support through the 2025-26 Pennsylvania Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, Rep. Dane Watro (R-116) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) announced today.

"I deeply appreciate the tireless efforts and commitment of our first responders. Their exceptional work ensures the safety of communities throughout the 116th District," said Watro. "I recognize that many companies face financial challenges and struggle to raise funds. That's why this annual state initiative is so important. It provides a reliable source of funding that allows these dedicated teams to continue their crucial, life-saving duties."

"I'm thankful so many local fire and EMS companies were awarded these highly competitive funds," said Argall. "These grants are well-deserved and will help our brave first responders with their critically important and dangerous jobs."

Projects eligible for funding include construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training, recruitment and retention, public education about fire safety or reduction of existing debt.

The ongoing funding program was created by the General Assembly. All grants are generated from slot machine gaming proceeds.

The local grants are as follows:

Luzerne County

• Borough of West Hazleton West Hazleton Fire Department - $13,250.94
• Diamond Engine Hose Hook and Ladder Company No. 2 - $15,518.21
• East End Engine and Hose Company No. 3 - $13,869.28
• Fourteenth Ward Fire Company - $12,632.59
• Harwood Fire Co. - $12,838.71
• Hazle Township Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company - $16,136.55
• Hazleton City Fire Department - $16,136.55
• Hazleton Heights Volunteer Fire Company - $13,044.82
• Hazleton Rescue Squad - $13,457.05
• Pioneer Fire Company No. 1 - $14,075.40
• West Hazleton Fire Hose Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 - $13,457.05

Schuylkill County

• Citizens Fire Company No. 2 - $14,899.86
• Columbia Hose and Steam Fire Company No. 1 - $12,838.71
• Defender Hose Company - $12,014.25
• Good American Hose Company No. 3 - $12,426.48
• Heights Fire Company No. 1 - $12,426.48
• Humane Fire Company No. 1 - $12,014.25
• McAdoo Fire Company Inc. - $38,487.63
• McAdoo Fire Company Inc. and Ambulance Association - $15,000
• Phoenix Fire Company No. 2 - $12,838.71
• Polish American Fire Company - $12,426.48
• Rescue Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 - $14,487.63
• Ringtown Valley Fire and Rescue Company - $24,220.36
• Shenandoah Community Ambulance Association - $45,000
• Sheppton Oneida Volunteer Fire Company - $12,426.48
• Washington Hook and Ladder No. 1 - $12,632.59
• West End Fire and Rescue - $14,281.52
• William Penn Fire Company No. 1 - $13,250.94

The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency with the application process handled through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner (OSFC). All companies that apply and meet requirements outlined by OSFC receive funding. Companies must file a grant agreement with OSFC to receive their grants.

CONTACTS:

Chris Comisac (Watro)
Seth Hubler (Argall)