BUCHANAN - Entergy Wednesday announced the formation of the Indian Point Energy Center’s new $500,000 Safety Responders Fund grant program.

The program is designed to help fund training and equipment purchases for first responders in the vicinity of Indian Point, said spokesman Jerry Nappi.

“Indian Point power plant partners with these organizations on a regular basis and we are looking to broaden that and help support them with some additional funding,” he said.

First responders may apply for up to $25,000 grants for training and equipment.

The Safety Responders Fund program accepts applications twice a year.

Applications will be accepted beginning the week of July 20 and are due by August 28. Applications for the second round of grants for 2009 will be announced at a later date.

For more information or to access an application form, go to www.safesecurevital.com and click on the “Community” tab.