State Rep. Mark M. Gillen has announced that six fire companies in the 128th Legislative District have been awarded more than $117,000 in funding through the 2025-26 Pennsylvania Fire Company and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program.

The following companies were awarded grants: Amity Fire Company, Douglassville - $16,136; Birdsboro-Union Fire Department, Birdsboro - $26,899; Exeter Township Volunteer Fire Department, Reading - $28,136; Friendship Fire Company No. 1 of Geigertown, Geigertown - $12,014; Monarch Fire Company No. 1, Douglassville - $14,075; and Twin Valley Fire Department, Elverson - $20,000.

Projects eligible for funding include construction or renovation of a fire or ambulance company facility, purchase or repair of equipment, training, recruitment and retention initiatives, public education about fire prevention, and reduction of existing debt.

The program is administered by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, with the application process handled through the Office of the State Fire Commissioner. All companies that apply and meet program requirements receive funding.