The North Wilkesboro Fire Dept has been awarded a SAFER Grant from FEMA.  The North Wilkesboro Fire Dept received word this week that they would receive $527,000 for 4 part-time firefighters and a volunteer recruitment program.  The money will be given over a 4 year period, and after 4 years, the Department can reapply for funding.  The North Wilkesboro Fire Chief Jimmy Martin hopes to have the funds in place and the program going within 90 days.  SAFER stands for Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response and is awarded by FEMA to fire departments across the country.