WASHINGTON, D.C. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) informed U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) that DHS is awarding the Ashaway Volunteer Fire Association, Charlestown Fire District, and the Westerly Fire Department federal funds for training, equipment, protective equipment and modifications to fire stations and facilities.Ashaway Volunteer Fire Association will receive $61,750, Charlestown Fire District will receive $54,843, and the Westerly Fire Department will receive $71,855. The federal funding comes from the fiscal year (FY) 2005 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill which Reed supported.These grants are evidence of the tremendous work these fire departments do for serving their communities, Reed said. The Assistance to Firefighters Grant program awards one-year grants directly to local fire departments, enhancing their abilities to respond to fire and fire-related hazards in their communities. This program seeks to support departments by providing them the tools and resources necessary to protect the health and safety of the public and firefighting personnel. These awards will be used to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, fund fire fighter health and safety programs, acquire new fire apparatus, enhance EMS programs, and conduct fire prevention and safety programs.In February Reed hosted his annual workshop to assist Rhode Island fire departments that are interested in applying for the grants. Communities including Lonsdsale, Quinnville and Central Falls have won awards from the federal program since Reed began his workshops.