Toomey Heralds Nearly $1.2 Million Federal Grant for Upper Darby Township Fire Department

Allentown, Pa.- U.S. Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) announced today that the Department of Homeland Security has awarded a $1,188,043 grant to the Upper Darby Township Fire Department to hire six new firefighters.

The Upper Darby Township Fire Department provides fire and rescue service to Upper Darby, an area that covers eight square miles to more than 82,000 residents. Upper Darby is the most populated township in Delaware County, and the sixth largest municipality in Pennsylvania. In addition to providing mutual aid to nine of the surrounding municipalities, the Upper Darby Township Fire Department also assists the City of Philadelphia with fire and rescue services. Sen. Toomey's office worked with Upper Darby Township Fire Department to assist with their grant application.

"I am pleased to announce a federal grant that will assist Upper Darby Township in hiring six new firefighters," Sen. Toomey said. "Additional firefighters can mean the difference between life and death for Upper Darby residents. I'm very grateful the Department of Homeland Security has recognized Upper Darby's pressing needs and granted its request."

"We are excited with this news," said Chief Gary S. McAfee of the Upper Darby Township Fire Department. "We are undoubtedly grateful to receive this award. This will bolster our efficiency and effectiveness in serving the residents of Upper Darby Township."