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Congressman Bob Latta (R-OH5) visited three fire departments in Defiance County today to thank firefighters for their service to their communities and discuss recent Federal grants that were awarded to the departments. Latta visited the Highland Township Fire Department in Ayersville, the City of Defiance Fire Department, and the Village of Hicksville Fire Department. He spoke with Highland Township Fire Chief Brent Davis, Defiance Fire Chief Bill Wilkins, and Hicksville Fire Chief Scott Cramer about how they are using the grants.

“Our first responders are instrumental in keeping our communities safe, and they’ve gone above and beyond during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Latta. “These grants will help them purchase Personal Protective Equipment, emergency vehicles, and training which will help them stay safe. I will continue to support our local fire departments and first responders and do what I can to ensure they have the resources they need to do their jobs. I want to thank Chief Davis, Chief Wilkins, and Chief Cramer for talking with me today and all the frontline firefighters for all they do.”

The City of Defiance was recently awarded an Assistance to Firefighters Grant in the COVID Supplemental Program, which Latta supported, that specifically will be used for the purchase of Personal Protective Equipment and essential supplies related to the COVID-19 response.

In addition, Highland Township and Hicksville received Assistance to Firefighters Grants that can be used for a variety of purposes including personal protective equipment, vehicles, emergency response equipment, and training. Latta’s office has supported these grant applications along with grants that were awarded to departments throughout Ohio’s 5^th Congressional District.

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