New Boots, Helmets Help Protect Firefighters, Enhance Community Safety
The Following Press Release is Courtesy of LCRA:
(KENDALL COUNTY, Texas) – The Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department soon will acquire new firefighting helmets and boots to help protect first responders, thanks to a $7,488 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority and Pedernales Electric Cooperative. The Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $1,872 in matching funds from the VFD, will enable the department to replace aging and expired equipment for veteran firefighters and provide necessary safety gear for new recruits. Lucy Hudson, lieutenant of the Bergheim VFD, said equipping the volunteer firefighters with high-quality helmets and boots is crucial as the department works to keep up with increasing service demands.
“We serve 58 square miles with a rapidly growing population,” Hudson said. “The aid comes at a time of need, as there is a demand for more gear with new volunteers joining our team. Upgrading our equipment is essential to ensure our first responders can safely tackle fire and rescue operations in our growing community.”As a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization, the Bergheim VFD relies primarily on donations and grant funding to purchase protective equipment for its firefighters.
“This grant provides the urgently needed funds for us to buy new equipment for our volunteers,” said Bergheim VFD Chief Adam Hawkins. “The timing of these funds is perfect, and we are very appreciative of the award. As first responders, we strive to provide reliable and responsive emergency services, keeping the community safe and protected. In order to do that, we need the best protection for our team.”
The VFD primarily serves the Bergheim area, but also responds to calls throughout Kendall County and adjacent counties. The community grant is one of 37 grants awarded recently through LCRA’s Community Development Partnership Program, which helps volunteer fire departments, local governments, emergency responders and nonprofit organizations fund eligible capital improvement projects in LCRA’s wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas. The program is part of LCRA’s effort to give back to the communities it serves. Pedernales Electric Cooperative is one of LCRA’s wholesale electric customers and is a partner in the grant program. Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in January 2025. More information is available at lcra.org/cdpp.
About LCRA
The Lower Colorado River Authority serves customers and communities throughout Texas by managing the lower Colorado River; generating and transmitting electric power; providing a clean, reliable water supply; and offering outdoor adventures at more than 40 parks along the Colorado River from the Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast. LCRA and its employees are committed to fulfilling our mission to enhance the quality of life of the Texans we serve through water stewardship, energy and community service. LCRA was created by the Texas Legislature in 1934 and receives no state appropriations.
About PEC
Founded in 1938 by then-Congressman Lyndon B. Johnson, Pedernales Electric Cooperative Inc. is a member-owned electric cooperative serving more than 415,000 meters across the Texas Hill Country. An industry-recognized leader providing outstanding member service and reliable electricity, PEC conducts its business via a transparent and democratic process and encourages member participation.
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