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Local Fire and EMS Agencies Receive Critical Funding Boost

Fire and emergency medical services organizations in Franklin County have been awarded vital funding through the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, providing essential support for local safety operations.

The recipients of the funding include:

  • Chambersburg Fire Department, receiving $16,106 for fire services and $15,000 for EMS.
  • Cumberland Valley Hose Co. No. 5, which has been granted $12,233.
  • Fayetteville Volunteer Fire Department, awarded $16,322 for fire services and $15,000 for EMS.
  • Franklin Fire Co., receiving $16,322.
  • Junior Hose and Truck Co. No. 2, with a grant of $12,018.
  • Marion Volunteer Fire Co. No. 8, which received $14,815 for fire services and $13,597 for EMS.
  • New Franklin Volunteer Fire Co., awarded $15,246 for fire services.

The funding initiative, overseen by the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and the Office of the State Fire Commissioner, is financed by proceeds from slot machine gaming, ensuring that no General Fund tax revenue is used.

Eligible projects for this funding include the construction or renovation of facilities, equipment purchases or repairs, training, recruitment and retention efforts, public education about fire prevention, and debt reduction. To receive the grants, all qualifying companies must adhere to the guidelines set by the OSFC and must file a grant agreement by May 30. This financial support underscores the community’s commitment to ensuring the preparedness and effectiveness of its emergency response teams.

Runaway Juvenile

On 11/05/26 at 0725 hours, Spencer Newman ran away from his residence. Newman is 5’9, 125 pounds, white male, brown eyes, brown hair and was last seen wearing a brown

Fred Allen Blocher 1943-2026

Fred Allen Blocher, 83, of Gardners, PA passed away Saturday, October 24 2026 at his home. Born October 19, 1943 in Gettysburg, he was the son of the late Fred

Frank Charles Henry 1945-2026

Born January 4, 1945 in Washington, D.C., Frank was an avid Civil War enthusiast who loved to share his knowledge with others.

Who We Are

The Franklin County Free Press, established by Vicky Taylor in 2019, emerged as a beacon of local journalism for the residents of Franklin County. Under Vicky's leadership, it quickly became an essential source of news, particularly at a time when major newspaper publications were increasingly overlooking local coverage.

On January 1, 2022, the torch was passed to Nathan Neil and his firm, Neil Publishing, LLC. Neil, a local entrepreneur with multiple thriving businesses in Chambersburg, shares Vicky's fervent commitment to both the community and the world of local journalism.

Rooted in the heart of Franklin County and powered by its residents, the Franklin County Free Press continues to bridge the gap, ensuring that the local stories, events, and issues that matter most to the community remain in the spotlight.