Rozzi announces $60,000 state grant for Mt. Penn Fire Co.

TEMPLE, Oct. 29 – State Rep. Mark Rozzi, D-Berks, today announced a $60,000 state grant has been approved by the Department of Community and Economic Development for the Mt. Penn Fire Co.

“This grant will provide Mt. Penn Fire Company with the money it required for improvements, equipment acquisitions and a much-needed repair to a fire truck,” Rozzi said. “The grant will allow emergency personnel and vehicles to return to the roads to protect and serve local residents. This experience has been rewarding, allowing my office to partner with members of the local community to help keep our neighbors and residents safe by finding the state funds needed to make a difference while also offsetting costs to taxpayers.”

The Mt. Penn Fire Co. is a volunteer fire company.

“I would like to thank Rep. Rozzi’s office for helping the Mt. Penn Fire Company secure this $60,000 grant to replace our 20-year-old squad/utility,” Mt. Penn Fire Chief Timothy Waldman said. “This particular apparatus is particularly busy responding to the many medical assist emergencies we are called to, and a replacement is very much needed. 2020 has been an especially challenging year for the dedicated volunteers here at Mt. Penn, and these funds will be put to good use.”

Tom Staron from Mt. Penn Fire Co. added: “We had a rough start to the year. A blown motor on our ladder truck then threw our budget into a tailspin. COVID compounded the issues and seemed to derail our plans for a new squad. This grant now lets us purchase the squad we had planned to and make necessary repairs. Many thanks to Mark Rozzi for securing this grant on his own, to purchase the squad which will serve our residents for many years to come. We are still 100% volunteer, and this is a huge boost to our guys and local taxpayers!”

As always, local nonprofits, businesses, school districts and municipalities are encouraged to contact Rozzi’s office for any help needed in applying for state grants.