Robert Irvine Foundation and Snap-tite Award Grants
ERIE, PA — A fire hose is a firefighter’s lifeline. That’s why the Robert Irvine Foundation, in partnership with Snap-tite, has awarded grants to support two local fire departments in Northwest Pennsylvania: the Fairview Volunteer Fire Department and the Union City Volunteer Fire Department. The funding, totaling $15,193 for Union City and $12,924 for Fairview, will provide critical firefighting hose to strengthen the capabilities of these volunteer departments as they protect their communities. With Snap-tite extending additional support through cost savings, the grant dollars will stretch even further allowing both departments to fully outfit their rigs with the essential fire hose needed for emergency response.
The announcement took place during Erie’s annual Hero Days, a community event sponsored by Erie Insurance and Sunbelt Rentals that is dedicated to honoring first responders, service members, and their families. The initiative reflects the shared mission of the Robert Irvine Foundation and Snap-tite: supporting those who serve and ensuring local heroes have the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.
Volunteer firefighters make up the backbone of public safety in many of our communities. Equipping these departments with high-quality hose helps ensure they can respond with confidence and keep their neighbors safe. Snap-tite, with facilities in Erie and Union City, is a leading manufacturer of firefighting hose and a strong advocate for supporting volunteer departments. The company’s Grant Services Program is free of charge and assists fire departments across the country in identifying and applying for funding opportunities to secure vital equipment. This latest collaboraMon with the Robert Irvine Foundation shows how partnerships can help fill funding gaps and deliver life saving resources where they’re needed most.
“Too often, volunteer departments are asked to do more with less,” said Breanna Adams, Snap-tite Grants Specialist. “By working together, we can ensure they have reliable high quality hose that performs under pressure and helps them focus on what matters most protecting lives and property.”
Both Fairview and Union City Fire Departments will soon receive Snap-Mte a_ack and supply line hose as part of the award. The grants not only enhance local response capabilities but also demonstrate a broader commitment to investing in first responders at the community level.
For more information about Snap-tite Hose’s Grant Services Program, visit https://www.snap-titehose.com/contact-us/grantservices.
About the Robert Irvine Foundation
The Robert Irvine Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the men and women defending our country, first responders, and the families who stand beside them. Through programs, partnerships, and direct support, the Foundation provides resources that improve lives and strengthen communities.
About Snap-tite Hose
Snap-tite Hose has been manufacturing premium fire hose solutions for nearly six decades. With a commitment to American manufacturing and uncompromising quality, Snap-tite products are trusted by fire departments nationwide. The company’s ISO 9001:2015 certification guarantees consistent, high-performance products that meet the demanding needs of modern firefighting applications.
About Hero Days
Hero Days is an annual event, established in 2023, to honor the work of military members, veterans, and first responders. Host sponsors Sunbelt Rentals and Erie Insurance are committed to holding the event each September 11, giving back to the community while recognizing local heroes. In partnership with the Robert Irvine Foundation, grant awards are typically presented to individuals or agencies during this event.