The Brussels-Union-Gardner (BUG) Fire Department has been awarded $19,917.46 through the Wisconsin EMS Funding Assistance Grant Program, funding that will help strengthen emergency medical services across the three-town district.

The grant supports EMS agencies throughout Wisconsin, including fire departments that provide medical response, and can be used for equipment purchases, training, and other operational needs. BUG Fire Chief Curt Vandertie said the award is the result of teamwork and persistence.

“This grant became available with the merger of our local EMR's, when we rolled everything into our Fire Department” Vandertie said. “This grant was on the top of our list, and there’s never a guarantee of success. You can apply for ten grants in a year and receive one. In this case, it paid off for our community.”

Vandertie also credited Captain Dalton Everard for his role in the application process, noting that grant writing often happens behind the scenes. “Captain Everard put in a lot of work on this application, and it’s important to recognize that dedication,” he said.

The Chief emphasized that the funding will directly benefit residents by helping the department maintain a high level of emergency medical care. Vandertie also thanked the firefighters and emergency medical responders who serve the Towns of Brussels, Union, and Gardner.

“We truly are three towns, one department,” Vandertie said. “Our members take great pride in serving this community, and this grant will help us continue doing that at the highest level.”