U.S. Sen. John Cornyn encouraged Texas fire departments Wednesday to apply for grant funding available to increase the number of firefighters at local firehouses.

The funding comes through the Department of Homeland Security’s Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program.

“The men and women on the front lines of emergency response need more support than ever as they work to keep our communities safe,” Cornyn said. “I encourage local fire departments in Texas to apply for this important funding, and will assist throughout the application process.”