State Rep. Zach Mako, R-183rd, recently announced 17 fire companies and emergency medical service companies serving the legislative district were awarded almost $240,000 in Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service grants.

Charotin Hose Company No. 1 in North Catasauqua received $13,094.

The grant money comes from state gaming proceeds as required under state law. It was first initiated in 2000 and is open to volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services and rescue squads in Pennsylvania. Grant awards can be used for construction or repair of facilities, purchase or repair of equipment, debt reduction and training. The funding amounts are contingent on the recipients filing their grant agreements with the Office of the State Fire Commissioner.

“This grant program provides vital funds for smaller projects that assist fire and ambulance service personnel care for members of our community,” Mako said. “It helps reduce the fundraising burden and lets our emergency responders focus more on coming to our aid in an emergency. I strongly support our first responders and will continue to advocate for their needs.”

Other area fire and emergency medical services companies that serve the 183rd District were awarded the following amounts.

• Northampton Fire Department — $13,955

• Northampton Regional Emergency Medical Services Inc. — $15,000

• Allen Township Fire Company No. 1 — $13,094

• East Allen Township Fire Department — $12,879

• Bath Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Corps — $14,170

• Lehigh Township Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 — $16,322

• Klecknersville Rangers Volunteer Fire Company — $12,018

• Klecknersville Rangers Volunteer Fire Company EMS — $15,000

• Community Fire Company No. 2 of North Whitehall Township — $12,449

• Community Fire Company of New Tripoli — $15,461

• Diamond Fire Company — $15,246

• Laurys Station Volunteer Fire Company — $13,955

• Neffs Volunteer Fire Company — $14,600

• Northern Valley Emergency Medical Services Inc. — $15,000

• Slatington Volunteer Fire Department — $13,955

• Tri Clover Fire Company — $13,525

The 183rd District includes North Catasauqua, Northampton, Bath and Walnutport boroughs and Allen, East Allen, Lehigh and Moore (part) townships in Northampton County. It also consists of Lowhill and North Whitehall townships and Slatington Borough in Lehigh County.