CHERRY HILL, NJ — The Cherry Hill Fire Department (CHFD) recently announced the receipt of substantial federal grants, amounting to more than $3 million, to enhance its staffing, equipment, and training capabilities. The announcement was made during a press conference at the CHFD Headquarters, attended by Congressman Donald Norcross and various local, county, and state officials.
The department was awarded an FY2022 FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant of over $2.6 million. This grant will support the hiring of eight firefighters, who are currently training at the CHFD Recruit Academy and are expected to begin their duties by early December.
Additionally, the CHFD received two FY2022 FEMA Assistance to Firefighter Grants (AFG) totaling nearly $725,000. These funds are earmarked for several initiatives, including training, equipment acquisition, and technology enhancements.
This financial boost is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Cherry Hill Firefighters, the International Association of Fire Fighters, and the New Jersey Firefighters PFANJ in advocating for resources that bolster the safety and effectiveness of fire and EMS personnel and the communities they serve.
The event was attended by notable figures including State Senator Jim Beach, Assemblyman Bill Moen, Camden County Government Commissioner Melinda Hopkins Kane, Cherry Hill Township Mayor Susan Shin Angulo, and Cherry Hill Police Department Chief Robert Kempf. Also present were Cherry Hill Fire Commissioners William P. Kelly, John J. Mulholland, Jr., Ryan Doran, New Jersey Firefighters PFANJ President Matt Caliente, and Camden County IAFF Local 3249 President Keith Kemery.