Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants Now Being Accepted by DEC

Funds to help rural fire departments to fight wildfires

July 17, 2013

Volunteer Emergency Services, announced that the DEC will be accepting applications for “Volunteer Fire Assistance” grants to help rural fire departments enhance their wildfire fighting capabilities. The deadline for application is July 25.

“This program makes sure volunteer service men and women who protect our rural areas have the equipment they need to keep us safe in case of a wild fire,” Assemblymember Brindisi said.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance grant program is funded by the U.S. Forest Service and administered by DEC. If awarded, fire departments will receive 50/50 matching funds up to the amount of $1,000. Last year, the program allocated $380,000, which provided an average of $1,000 grants to 386 fire departments. It is anticipated $360,000 will be allocated for 2013.

Eligible fire companies include those that serve a single town with a population under 10,000; those that serve multiple communities, one of which is a rural town of less than 10,000 residents; and fire companies in towns with a population of 10,000 or more that meet the requirements listed on the application. All funded projects should be completed by October 31, 2013.

For applications or further information about the grant program, contact Assemblymember Brindisi’s office at 732-1055 or, visit the DEC website at ,a href="http://www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/2364.html">http://www.dec.ny.gov/regulations/2364.html.

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