By Y.M. Lowy

Two Rockland County volunteer fire departments have been awarded state funding to improve their facilities and emergency response capabilities.

The Village of Suffern Fire Department is receiving $256,679, while the West Nyack Fire District is receiving $99,000.

The funding is part of $25 million awarded by Governor Kathy Hochul to 65 volunteer fire departments and districts across New York State. Ten departments received the maximum $1 million award.

The grants are intended to help volunteer departments with facility improvements, response capabilities and emergency preparedness, while helping offset the rising costs of equipment and construction.

Nearly half of New Yorkers rely on volunteer firefighters for fire protection and emergency response. State officials said volunteer departments have also been facing declining numbers of people willing to serve, while responding to a growing range of calls including fires, vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents and weather-related rescues.