FEMA awarded over $68 million in grant funding to support fire departments in 6 states

This week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $68 million in grant funding to support fire departments and first responder organizations across Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin. These essential funds are distributed to help emergency personnel strengthen their operational capacity and enhance local community safety, ensuring responders are well-prepared when disaster strikes.

The funding comes from FEMA’s Fiscal Year 2025 fire grant programs, which include the Assistance to Firefighters Grants, the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program, and the Fire Prevention and Safety program. Published in May 2026 with a combined pool of $648 million, these programs directly aid local departments, responder agencies, and fire safety organizations. Over the coming week, FEMA plans to continue releasing remaining grant allocations.

Under the Assistance to Firefighters Grants, FEMA Region 5 received more than $58 million to help departments secure compliant personal protective equipment, acquire new response vehicles, and fund health and wellness initiatives. Key awards in this category include over $880,000 for the Grand Rapids Township Fire Department in Ohio, more than $860,000 for the North Shore Fire Department in Wisconsin, and over $850,000 for the Village of Alsip Fire Department in Illinois.

In addition, more than $9.6 million was allocated through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response program to support firefighter staffing, recruitment, and retention efforts. Major awards include nearly $940,000 to the City of Brooklyn Center City Hall in Minnesota, over $850,000 to the Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs, and more than $830,000 to the Indiana Fire Chiefs Association.

Finally, over $700,000 was awarded via the Fire Prevention and Safety grant program to advance scientific research, technology development, community outreach, and firefighter well-being. Notable recipients include the Monroe Fire Protection District in Indiana receiving nearly $300,000, Delta Charter Township in Michigan receiving over $160,000, and Bloomfield Charter Township in Michigan receiving more than $130,000. Complete information and additional award details remain accessible through FEMA's official fire grant web portals.