The Oswego Fire Protection District will purchase clothes for their mascot “Pumper the Fire Pup” whose purpose is to educate the public in relation to community fire protection and prevention, thanks to a grant from Illinois American Water.
The Illinois American Water Firefighter Grant Program provides financial assistance to fire and emergency organizations serving communities in its service areas. The program awards grants to provide personal protective gear, communications equipment, firefighting tools, water handling equipment, training materials, and classroom programs. The grant winners were announced in conjunction with National Fire Prevention Week, October 6 – 12, 2019, to raise awareness about the importance of fire prevention and emergency planning.
This year, more than $88,000 will be shared by 90 Illinois fire departments through the grant program. Since the program was created in 2010, more than 590 grants totaling more than $582,000 have been awarded.
“We know the critical role water plays in protecting homes and businesses; we also know resources for our local heroes often run short. The Illinois American Water firefighter grant program was created to help bridge the gap and support our local firefighters,” said Bruce Hauk, Illinois American Water president.
Oswego Assistant Fire Chief John Cornish thanked Illinois American Water during the check presentation. “Once again, the Oswego Fire Protection District is proud to be a partner with Illinois American Water in their efforts to ensure we have the funds necessary to provide valuable services to keep our communities safe. The grant monies provided go a long way to ensure success when it comes to safety and for that we thank you,” stated Cornish.
— Oswego Fire Protection District