A state grant will help the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department purchase protective gear as rising equipment costs continue to strain volunteer departments

By Bill Wyatt
Martinsville Bulletin

RIDGEWAY, Va. — Ridgeway has received a $15,000 state grant to help the town purchase protective firefighting equipment for the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department.

The grant was awarded through the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Fire Programs Grant Fund and will be used to buy personal protective equipment for firefighters.

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Mayor Craig O’Der said the funding will help offset rising costs for safety gear used by volunteer firefighters.

“The cost of firefighter protective clothing and personal safety equipment has increased dramatically in recent years, placing a significant financial burden on volunteer fire departments throughout our region,” O’Der said. “This grant will allow the Town of Ridgeway to assist the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department by helping offset these rising costs and ensuring our firefighters have the equipment they need to perform their duties safely.”

O’Der said the town has received state Fire Programs Grant funding each year for the past 12 years, with annual awards ranging from $10,000 to $15,000. He said the grants have helped the department purchase firefighting equipment and protective gear without adding costs for local volunteers or taxpayers.

Deputy Chief Earl Emerson accepted the grant check on behalf of the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department .

O’Der praised the department’s volunteers for their service to the community.

“The Town of Ridgeway is extremely proud of the Ridgeway Volunteer Fire Department and the outstanding service they provide to our community,” O’Der said. “Their army of dedicated volunteers stands ready at all hours to protect lives and property, and we are grateful for their professionalism, sacrifice, and commitment to public safety.”

The town said it will continue to pursue grant opportunities to support emergency services and improve safety for first responders and residents.

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