Applications are now being accepted for the Small Equipment Grant Program benefiting fire departments and ambulance services, State Senator Doris Turner announced.

With fire departments being essential to communities, the Small Equipment Grant Program ensures that they have tools and resources to do their job.  Senator Turner says she encourages local fire departments to apply for funding. 

The Small Equipment Grant Program assists fire departments and not-for-profit ambulance services in Illinois, particularly those experiencing difficulty in generating the necessary revenue for small equipment. The grants allow eligible applicants the opportunity to purchase small tools and equipment they may otherwise not be able to afford.

A total of $4 million in funding will be available through this year’s program to eligible fire departments and EMS services. All interested departments should send an application to OSFM electronically or postmarked no later than Oct. 1, 2024.

Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera says that he hears the need daily and that departments should not have to decide between putting fuel in their trucks or providing equipment for their members to protect their communities. fectively.”

For more information or to fill out an application, visit the OSFM’s website.