Millions in federal funding is on its way to a handful of fire departments in Maine.

U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree’s office said Wednesday the $3 million in federal aid will benefit fire departments in Falmouth, Kennebunk, Jefferson and the Maine State Fire Academy in South Portland.

She says the town of Kennebunk was awarded more than $2.6 million to hire eight new firefighters through FEMA’s Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program.

It’s the eighth round of funding to come through that program. Last week, Buxton, Nobleboro, and Portland were awarded more than $645,000 as part of the seventh round of funding.

“This additional funding issued by FEMA will help keep our brave first responders safe. Funding like this is crucial for town departments and the State Fire Academy to hire, train, and strengthen prospective firefighters so they’re prepared to protect and serve our communities when the alarm sounds,” said Congresswoman Pingree.

The rest of the funding is intended for a variety of uses, including training and equipment like breathing apparatuses, radios, training, vehicles, and air compressor systems.