Fire co. gets $41K grant

OCEANPORT - The borough Volunteer Fire Company received an infusion of funds last week to support its Fire Explorers program.

On Jan. 25, Rep. Rush Holt (N.J.-12) presented the fire company with a $41,000 grant at the firehouse on Main Street.

The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), will fund the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters through the Fire Explorers program, according to a press release from Holt's office.

"The Fire Explorers program is one that is worthy of the support of the federal government, and I am always pleased to help local first responders in obtaining the funding and assistance that they need for equipment and personnel," said Holt in the release.

"These individuals selflessly volunteer on behalf of their neighbors, and they deserve recognition and support from all of us," he said.

Oceanport successfully applied for the grant through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program, following a fire grants workshop sponsored by Holt.

The SAFER program is one of three grant programs available to local fire departments through the DHS.

The Fire Explorers program allows young people to assist firefighters and learn first-hand about the tasks carried out by first responders, according to the release.

"I am pleased that this grant will reward young people for their selfless actions to help and to protect the community, Oceanport Fire Chief Jerry Bertekap said. "It will encourage people to join and reward them for their service."

Oceanport Mayor Lucille Chaump said "This grant gives an excellent opportunity to improve the recruitment and retention of volunteer firefighters.

"It will help us further the education of young people with an interest in firefighting and enable them to give back to their community."