Bynum Secures Over One Million for Scio Rural Fire

October 6, 2026 Press Release Today, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) announced that the Scio Rural Fire Protection District has received a $1.19 million federal grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to support firefighter safety and fire prevention. Congresswoman Bynum advocated for the funding by writing a letter to FEMA in support of Scio Rural Fire’s grant application. “When you call 911, you shouldn’t have to wonder if there are enough firefighters to answer,” said Rep. Bynum. “This $1.19 million is a big deal for Scio, Jefferson, and the communities they serve. It means more support for the people running toward emergencies and a stronger response when our neighbors need help most. This is exactly what bringing federal dollars home should look like.” "These grants are a significant opportunity and an important first step in building the capacity our Fire & Life Safety Division needs," said Albany Fire Chief Chris LaBelle. "A community our size, with the growth and unique industries we have, requires a more proactive approach to risk reduction. This position moves us in that direction and supports our mission to Prevent and Protect from Harm." "Redmond Fire & Rescue would like to thank Senators Merkley and Wyden and Congresswoman Bynum for their support,” said Redmond Fire Chief Ryan Herrera. " With members of our organization having navigated a past cancer diagnosis, and with the recent passing of Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Kienzle from a Line-of-Duty cancer, this funding marks another meaningful step forward in our commitment to carcinogen reduction and improving the long-term health and safety of our firefighters." "As costs continue to rise faster than available revenue, small fire districts like ours face difficult choices about how to best use limited resources. Recruiting, training, and retaining volunteer firefighters can too often be delayed as we focus on meeting the immediate costs of providing emergency services,” said Scio Fire Chief Kevin White. "This grant is an important investment in the future of our department and our community. It will strengthen our efforts to recruit and retain volunteers, grow our membership, and ensure we have the people and resources needed to provide the high-quality emergency services our community depends on. We are grateful for this support and the opportunity to build a stronger, more sustainable fire department." FEMA awarded the funding through its Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant Program, which helps fire departments hire additional firefighters and strengthen recruitment and retention efforts. FEMA also issued funding under the SAFER Grant Program to the following areas: More than $2.3 million to Boise Fire Department in Boise, Idaho More than $1.7 million to South Kitsap Fire and Rescue in Port Orchard, Washington. More than $1.7 million to Spokane County Fire District 9 in Mead, Washington. More than $1.1 million to Umatilla Rural Fire Protection District in Umatilla, Oregon. $1 million to North Whidbey Fire and Rescue in Oak Harbor, Washington. ###