Rio Grande Valley, TX (KRGV) — Several fire departments in the Rio Grande Valley are receiving part of the $19.6 million the Texas A&M Forest Service is awarding to 518 rural volunteer fire departments across the state through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, according to a news release.

The program provides funding for equipment, training and other emergency needs. The Texas A&M Forest Service said the money will support firefighting equipment and emergency response.

In Hidalgo County, Edcouch Volunteer Fire Department and the La Joya Volunteer Fire Department each recieved $45,000 for a slip-on unit. The Mercedes Fire Department and Penitas Fire Department each received $15,000 for training aids.

The Progreso Volunteer Fire Department will get $165,000 for a small brush truck.

In Starr County, La Casita Volunteer Fire Department received $45,000 for a slip-on unit and La Grulla Volunteer Fire Department received $30,000 for personal protective equipment.

La Rosita Volunteer Fire Department will get $30,000 for fire and rescue equipment and the Rio Grande City Fire Department will get $15,000 for training aids.

The money will also help departments buy protective clothing and other resources they need to respond to emergencies in their communities.