$400K FEMA grant will add 12 paramedics to NM fire department

By Rachel Engel

LAS CRUCES, N.M. — A grant of nearly $400,000 will allow the Las Cruces Fire Department to provide paramedic certification training for 12 firefighters.

A total of $393,186 was awarded to the LCFD through the Assistance to Firefighter Grant by FEMA, of which the city must match 10%, or $39,320, KRWG reported .

“The grant and matching funds will cover everything needed for the course aside from the uniforms,” Deputy Fire Chief of Operations Justin Allen said. “This is great news as we continue to strive to provide the highest level of care for the

Once the firefighters are selected to receive the training, the 12 members will enroll in the New Mexico State University-Dona Ana Community College paramedic program for the academic work, and the department will work with local healthcare providers for the practical application.

The department expects the paramedics to be fully certified by fall of 2022.