Lometa Volunteer Fire Department will receive a $130,343 grant to support firefighters and its work as first responders, according to the office of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn. Funding can be used for training and support operations and to purchase firefighter safety and rescue equipment.

Funding comes through the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Grants and Training as part of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

"This funding will help make sure first responders at the Lometa Volunteer Fire Department have the resources necessary to keep the surrounding community safe," said Cornyn. "We have a responsibility to support those working on the front lines every day to protect homes, families and property."

The award aims to enhance first responders' ability to protect the health and safety of the public, as well as that of first-responder personnel, with respect to fire-related hazards.

Cornyn held roundtables with emergency first responders across Texas as part of his ongoing effort to support their work. The events provide communities the opportunity to express their needs and concerns directly to Cornyn.

The Office of Grants and Training, a component of the DHS Preparedness Directorate, partners with state and local officials to strengthen the capabilities of first responders in addressing emergencies and catastrophic incidents.

The program provides a broad array of assistance to America's emergency responders through funding, coordinated training exercises, equipment transition and technical assistance.