Fire companies and ambulance services across Pennsylvania have received an encouraging call to action as the 2023-24 Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service (EMS) Grant Program opens for applications. The program, administered by the Office of the State Fire Commissioner, offers financial support to volunteer and career fire companies, emergency medical services, and rescue squads for a range of critical needs.
Financial Assistance for Essential Services
Grants awarded through the program can be used for a variety of purposes, including the construction or renovation of a unit's station, the purchase or repair of equipment, training initiatives, or debt reduction. This year, the program has increased its maximum grant amount to $20,000 for fire companies and $15,000 for volunteer ambulance services, providing even more support to these essential organizations.
Application Deadline and Process
Interested parties are urged to submit their applications online by October 20 at 4 p.m. The application portal and additional information can be found on the Office of the State Fire Commissioner's website.
Who Can Apply?
The Fire Company and Emergency Medical Service Grant Program is open to all fire companies, emergency medical services, and volunteer rescue squads. Eligible organizations may apply for grant funding for up to two projects falling into various categories:- Facilities: This includes construction or renovation of a fire company's or ambulance service's facility, as well as the purchase or repair of fixtures and furnishings required to enhance their capabilities in providing fire, ambulance, and rescue services.
- Equipment: Grants can be utilized for the purchase or repair of firefighting, ambulance, or rescue equipment. This category also encompasses fuel expenses for company vehicles.
- Debt Reduction: Eligible organizations can use grant funds to reduce debt associated with facility or equipment categories.
- Training: Funding is available for training and certification of members to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge.
- Training and Education: Materials aimed at fire prevention for the general public can be supported through these grants.
- Career Departments Only: Overtime costs associated with backfilling positions while firefighters attend training can be covered.
- Recruitment and Retention: Programs focusing on volunteer firefighter length of service award programs and initiatives for minors are eligible for funding.
- Construction Savings Account – Fire Companies Only: Fire companies looking to construct new facilities can apply for a grant to establish a Construction Savings Account, which will be administered by the Commissioner. The application window for this project is limited to five years and cannot be amended.
Maintaining Eligibility
Organizations seeking continued eligibility in the program must report their incidents on a monthly basis for both the current and future fiscal years.To apply for the grant online visit, https://www.osfc.pa.gov/GrantsandLoans/Volunteer%20Fire%20Company%20And%20Ambulance%20Grants/Pages/default.aspx