Fire companies in the southern tier will receive more than $4.4 million in state funding

(WBNG) — 12 Southern Tier fire companies have collectively received more than $4.4 million in funding.

The funds are part of a $25 million state grant awarded to fire departments to purchase equipment.

Some local departments receiving funding include:

Prospect Terrace
Dickinson
Oxford
Sidney
Montour waterfall
McGraw

Fire officials said many volunteer fire departments in New York are struggling to maintain facilities that keep citizens safe.

State Department of Homeland Security Commissioner Jackie Bray said she hopes the funding will help.

“We know we have some really critical fire departments that are struggling that need a little extra help so they can continue to serve their communities,” Bray told 12 News.

State officials said the grant program supports the safety and health of volunteer firefighters by providing state-of-the-art equipment, including personal protective equipment, decontaminating agents and effective exhaust systems.