INDIAN ISLAND – Penobscot Indian Nation Fire Department has received more than $23,000 through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, according to a press release Wednesday from U.S. Sen. Susan Collins.

The funding will be used to purchase 16 sets of turnout gear, including uniforms, helmets, boots and gloves, Penobscot Nation Fire Chief Joey Loring said Thursday.

The firefighter grants are awarded to fire departments across the country to increase the effectiveness of firefighting operations, firefighter health and safety programs, emergency medical service programs, and fire prevention and safety programs, and to purchase new fire equipment.