According to FEMA officials, grants will be awarded in seven categories. One of my priorities when creating this grant program was to make funds available for hiring. While this is part of the legislation, it was decided that this year only seven of the fourteen categories would be available for grant applicants. This year's grant cycle will not include hiring as a category for assistance. However, I promise you that I have made it a priority of mine to see that hiring is included in the Fiscal Year 2002 grant cycle.
Fire departments are eligible to apply for grants in up to two categories.
I invite you to stay in contact with me as we move forward and work toward establishing the grant program.