$500,000 In Federal Funds To Help Toms River Volunteer Fire Department Recruit New Members

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith

TOMS RIVER - Rep.

Chris Smith (R-Manchester) announced Toms River Fire District No. 1 will receive $508,256 in federal funds to help recruit and retain volunteers as part of the federal Staffing for

Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program. The Fire District oversees six of the township’s nine fire stations.

“The vitality of Toms River’s volunteer fire de - partment depends greatly on retaining its dedicated firefighters who selflessly risk their lives to rescue our neighbors who fall in harm’s way, as well as attracting new volunteers who are ready to courageously respond to the call of service,” said Smith, who had contacted the Department of Homeland Security on behalf of the township to advocate for the funds.

“Toms River is grateful to Congressman Smith for working hard to get these much-needed funds to recruit and retain firefighters,” said Maurice B. Hill, Jr., Mayor of Toms River. “Our first responders, many of whom are volunteers, are the backbone of our community and we are grateful for their sacrifice and courage in protecting our lives and property.”

“This federally-funded Recruitment & Retention grant is a tremendous leg up for volunteer firefighting and the lifesaving and financial benefits it brings to our community,” said Fire District No. 1 Administrator Brian Kubiel, who noted the funds will be used to reach out to potential recruits and help pay the expenses of firefighting training, including related advertising and educational classes.

“This federal grant program - which I strongly supported - will help ensure the vital Toms River volunteer fire crew can continue to meet the needs