On Friday in West Hazleton, Pennsylvania, firefighters demonstrated new rescue gear purchased using a $40,000 Gary Sinise Foundation grant. The equipment, designed to lift an overturned car during emergencies, was showcased as firefighters operated pump handles to raise the vehicle safely, simulating freeing a trapped victim.
The Gary Sinise Foundation grant enabled the purchase of modern tools that greatly improve rescue operations, equipping the West Hazleton Fire Department with faster and more efficient capabilities. This addition already represents a significant upgrade from the department’s previous set dating back to 1994.
Capabilities and Advantages of the New Rescue Tools
Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Milore explained the equipment’s versatility, noting it can assist in rope rescues, stabilizing vehicles, and supporting structures. According to Milore, the new tools are robust enough to lift even a railcar, yet lighter and easier to assemble compared to older models, making them highly practical for responding to emergencies.
How the Grant Came to West Hazleton Fire Department
Joseph Zajac, president of the fire department, took charge of identifying potential funding resources. He explained that applying for grants and finding financial support is part of his role. The department was able to secure the grant by submitting a strong application, further boosted by a letter of endorsement from U.S. Representative Rob Bresnahan of Dallas Township.
We think that made the difference,
Zajac said.
Support from Local Officials During the Equipment Demonstration
Representative Bresnahan attended the demonstration, engaging with firefighters and inspecting the new gear. He also toured the historic 1888 firehouse, currently under renovation, before joining firefighters, Mayor John Chura, and borough council members for lunch. During the gathering, the discussion turned to the department’s priority for a new fire engine.
Challenges in Replacing Aging Fire Truck
The department’s busiest fire engine is more than 25 years old and requires costly repairs — $25,000 was spent recently to maintain its operation. Joseph Zajac emphasized the unsustainability of these expenses, especially as the department identified replacing the engine as a top priority in 2023.
When considering procurement, Zajac pointed out that manufacturing and delivery for a new fire engine could take up to four years, which the department cannot afford. The anticipated price for a new engine ranges from $1 million to $1.2 million, which is a significant portion of the borough’s $4 million annual budget.
Efforts to Secure Additional Funding
The West Hazleton Fire Department applied for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program but did not advance beyond the initial round. Additionally, congressional grants, such as the Congressional Community Project Funding, are highly competitive. According to Bresnahan, he received 111 applications for only 15 grants during the most recent cycle.
Bresnahan explained that the Appropriations Committee updates grant rules yearly and pledged to inform the department of any new guidelines when available. He and his wife Chelsea also manage a private foundation providing smaller donations, like ambulance gear and rescue boats, to local fire departments.
Department Staffing and Volunteer Engagement
West Hazleton Fire Chief Brandon Cressman, the department’s sole full-time employee, noted the fire company relies heavily on part-time staff and volunteers. Of 30 registered volunteers, typically 12 to 15 respond during busy days. Cressman underscored how integral these volunteers are to emergency responses.
I give you guys a lot of credit,
Bresnahan said.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Resources and Community Safety
The Gary Sinise Foundation grant has already provided crucial new equipment for the West Hazleton Fire Department, enhancing rescue capabilities and safety for both responders and victims. However, the department continues to face significant financial and logistical challenges in upgrading essential apparatus like the aging fire engine.
Support from elected officials and private foundations remains critical as fire departments navigate competitive grant processes and limited budgets. The experience highlights the ongoing need for strong advocacy and resourcefulness to maintain life-saving services for communities like West Hazleton.
