Range Resources distributed a record $155,000 in grants for emergency responders through its Good Neighbors Fund this year. The fund, which benefits local emergency response organizations in Range’s operating area, has funded about $615,000 in grant awards since its inception in 2018.

The program is made possible through a partnership with the Washington County Community Foundation (WCCF).

Range held a reception for 2022 award recipients on Wednesday, July 13 in Southpointe. This year, the fund will provide financial support to 37 local first responders to purchase supplies that improve or advance daily operations and special projects including items such as night vision goggles, thermal imaging camera, first responder vehicles, self-contained breathing apparatus, among others.

Range’s Security Manager, Max Oravetz, a former police chief, fireman, and EMT within Washington County knows the impact grants can have when it comes to finances.

“I am familiar with the struggles of first responder organizations when it comes to budgeting and providing equipment,” said Oravitz. “I am honored and proud to now work for a company that recognizes the importance of our first responders and is willing to assist them.”

Chief of Police for South Strabane Township, Drew Hilk, said his department has applied for the grant the last five years and this year’s proceeds have helped enhance a video surveillance project in the area.

“We have a surveillance camera project in South Strabane Township in cooperation with County-wide and area agencies and we’ve gotten tremendous success from the project,” he said. “It’s not just law enforcement; our surveillance cameras really enhance public safety mostly in our commercial districts where most of our visitors come on a daily basis and we really appreciate Range Resources for all they do.”

North Strabane Director of Public Safety, Mark Grimm, said that this year’s grant will provide two AED’s, which will each find a home in the community park and municipal building. In addition, the police department also secured two portable stop signs aimed at assisting traffic during power outages. “With power outages in the area, safety is our number one concern, so we are very appreciative we are able to partner with Range Resources,” he said.

We look forward to a continued partnership with WCCF and helping our local first responders who sacrifice so much for their communities.

Read more: Observer-Reporter Range Resources awards 2022 First Responders Fund grants