Norwich — U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney announced Monday that the East Great Plain Volunteer Fire Department will receive a $393,000 federal grant to recruit and retain volunteer firefighters for the department that serves much of the city’s west side.

The funds are from the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“Having a well-trained, reliable corps of volunteer firefighters who can safely and effectively respond to local emergencies is a key part of keeping our communities safe,” Courtney said. “I commend Chief Patrick Daley and his department on securing this funding in an extremely competitive environment.”