Grant helps S.C. fire department offset cost of volunteers

Myrtle Beach Online

CAROLINA FOREST, S.C. — Horry County officials hope that nearly $1 million in grant money will make it easier to grow the department’s volunteer base.

Brian VanAernem, spokesman for Horry County Fire Rescue, said the $975,000 federal grant the county received in March will be spread over four years. The money will pay for firefighting gear as well as station gear – such as T-shirts – and required physicals for about 25 volunteers each year.

“It’s huge,” said Capt. Fred DeAngelis, a volunteer who leads the all-volunteer station on International Drive in Carolina Forest. “The gear alone to fit a firefighter is about $1,800.”

Full story: Grant helps Horry County Fire Rescue offset cost of volunteer