U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has awarded grants to two Schuylkill County fire departments. The funds will be distributed via the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The Good Will Hose Company No. 1 in Frackville has been awarded $140,477, which will allow the purchase of 47 portable radios and 10 mobile radios for vehicles.Deer Lake & West Brunswick Fire Company No. 1 in Orwigsburg has been awarded $159,524, which will allow the purchase of 49 portable radios and 15 mobile radios for vehicles.Both departments are hosts of Regional Applications on behalf of other Schuylkill County fire departments. The funds will allow all departments in the equipment distribution the ability to continue to upgrade their mobile radio systems from analog to digital, ensuring regional interoperability.