Mercer County, Pa. - The Fredonia Volunteer Fire Department has received over $13,000 in funds, improving wildfire protection. 
 
Pennsylvania State Rep. Tim Bonner announced in a Wednesday press release that the $13,775 in funding was awarded by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. The funds came from a grant program that awards funds to departments serving municipalities with fewer than 10,000 residents. 
 
The fire department plans to use the grant money to purchase new gear including wildfire suppression equipment, protective gear and communications tools. Bonner said he hopes that the funds will be put to good use for the benefit of the community. 
 
"I am grateful for this investment in the Fredonia Volunteer Fire Department," Bonner said. "It will undoubtedly keep residents of Mercer County safer and better protected by strengthening the department's ability to respond to emergencies."
 
Bonner added that volunteer fire departments are heavily relied upon in smaller areas like Fredonia, especially during times of emergency.
 
"This support will continue to ensure they have the tools needed to respond," he said.