MCGRAW, NY (CortacaToday) – Volunteer fire departments in New York are getting a boost, including one in Cortland County.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced late last month $25 million in funding is headed to 88 departments across the state. The Village of McGraw Fire Department was awarded a $108,000 grant for equipment upgrades. Hochul said investing in volunteer firefighters is an investment to the safety of the communities they serve.

“I know you don’t like the word hero,” said Hochul. “None of you want to be called a hero, because you have such humility. You know what you’re doing, and you know why you’re doing it, and I would just want to continue [using] my voice, my platform, my position to always elevate you and your needs.”

According to a McGraw Fire Department Facebook post, the money will be used to purchase new turnout gear, fire hoses and nozzles, extrication tools, and lockers.