(WENY) -- Three more Southern Tier fire departments are receiving federal support.

Local fire departments have been reaping the benefits of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

In this latest round of grant awards, the North Hornell Fire Department Club will receive $43,809.52 to purchase and install a vehicle exhaust removal system for the fire station.

In Otsego County, East Worcester Hose Co. 1 will receive $22,619.04 to purchase new firefighter protective gear.

In Chenango County, McDonough Fire Department will receive $40,510.47 to purchase and install a vehicle exhaust removal system for the fire station.

"It is essential that we provide our firefighters with the equipment they need to stay safe on the job," Senator Chuck Schumer said. "Our first responders in the Southern Tier and across the stat are our local heroes and our first line of defense for safety and security -- it is critical that we do all we can to ensure that they are well equipped and prepared to take on any emergency."

The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency in cooperation with the Department's United States Fire Administration. The grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the applicants that most closely address the program's priorities and demonstrate financial need.