Millions of dollars in grants are on the way for Pennsylvania’s fire departments and ambulance agencies struggling through the coronavirus pandemic.

Social distancing guidelines meant to slow the virus’ spread have had a negative impact on the fundraisers fire departments rely on annually. Departments lost tens of thousands of dollars when those events were canceled.

The Office of the State Fire Commissioner is working on disbursement of the money, according to Gov. Tom Wolf.

“It has become a struggle just to keep the lights on for far too many of the companies that protect our communities,” said State Fire Commissioner Bruce Trego. “I am pleased that our office can help get these funds out to the companies most in need.”

Fire departments will be eligible for $44 million. The remaining $6 million will be set aside for EMS agencies, which have seen additional costs to purchase protective equipment for medics and EMTs.

Firefighters have come up with novel, online ways to raise money over the past month, but many said those efforts aren’t matching the amount they’d normally bring in through events such as gun bashes, fairs and burger sales. Fire departments rely heavily on fundraisers and drives each year to keep up with regular monthly expenses, including insurance, fuel and utilities.

Information about how to apply will be available in the coming weeks on the commissioner’s website.

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