The Township has received news via Congressman Rodney P. Frelinghuysen that  Flanders Fire and Rescue has been approved for a $27,000 Fire Administration Grant under the 2003 application round.

Mayor Richard D. De La Roche stated, "The grant is a very positive endorsement of our exceptional fire and rescue volunteers and the fine work they do. These funds will be used for turn-out gear and other protective equipment for firefighters."

"We are very pleased to see our firefighters receive this grant. They risk their lives for us, and we have to make sure they have the best protection possible," said Steve Rattner, Council President.

The 2003 grant program is distributing $750 million nationwide to upgrade emergency services.  Since the 2001 World Trade Center disaster, the funding has increased from the initial $100 million offered in 2000. The greater portion of the funds has provided gear and equipment.  Fire prevention and education, training, wellness, and fire vehicles have been provided to a lesser extent. Most trucks provided have been for rural fire districts with aging vehicles or inner city districts. Flanders previously received $38,000 for a fire prevention trailer for education programs.