🚒 Toms River Fire District No. 1 receiving large amount of federal funds for firefighter recruitment and retainment

🚒 Congressman Chris Smith able to secured more than $500,000 for Toms River Fire District No. 1 which oversees six fire stations

🚒 Toms River officials discuss just how important these funds are for firefighters


There is big news arriving in Ocean County as Congressman Chris Smith (R - Ocean/Monmouth) has announced that Toms River Fire District No. 1 is the recipient of $508,256 in federal funding.

Shawn Michaels
Shawn Michaels
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These funds will be used to help recruit and retain volunteer firefighters thanks to a federal grant program known as the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER), according to Congressman Smith who was in touch with DHS to help secure this funding.

The Toms River Fire District No. 1 oversees six of the nine fire stations located across the township.

“The vitality of Toms River’s volunteer fire department depends greatly on retaining its dedicated firefighters who selflessly risk their lives to rescue our neighbors who fall in harm’s way, as well as attracting new volunteers who are ready to courageously respond to the call of service,” Congressman Smith said in a written statement.

A fire truck at Toms River Fire Company #1
A fire truck at Toms River Fire Company #1 (Dan Alexander, Townsquare Media NJ)
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“This federal grant program—which I strongly supported—will help ensure the vital Toms River volunteer fire crew can continue to meet the needs of our community with responsive action that will help save the lives of those who find themselves in serious danger."

Toms River officials thrilled with news of federal funds for firefighters

“Toms River is grateful to Congressman Smith for working hard to get these much-needed funds to recruit and retain firefighters,” Toms River Mayor Maurice "Mo" Hill said in a written statement. “Our first responders, many of whom are volunteers, are the backbone of our community and we are grateful for their sacrifice and courage in protecting our lives and property.”

(Photo: Vin Ebenau, Townsquare Media NJ)
(Photo: Vin Ebenau, Townsquare Media NJ)
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“This federally-funded Recruitment & Retention grant is a tremendous leg up for volunteer firefighting and the lifesaving and financial benefits it brings to our community,” Toms River Fire District No. 1 Administrator Brian Kubiel said in a written statement.

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Kubiel also explained to Congressman Smith that these funds that they've received will be used to not only help with recruitment efforts but also pay for firefighter training, advertising, and education.

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