The Small Equipment Grant Program is a response to the ongoing financial difficulties faced by fire departments and nonprofit ambulance services in Illinois, especially those that struggle to raise the necessary revenue to buy small equipment. The grants provide an opportunity for eligible applicants to acquire equipment they might otherwise be unable to afford.
“The Small Equipment Grant Program is critical in providing fire departments and ambulance providers with the necessary equipment to ensure their staff can perform their duties safely and efficiently,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal James A. Rivera. “These grants alleviate the burden of tough financial decisions, allowing departments to acquire essential tools without delay, ensuring they have what they need when they need it.”
A total of 347 applications were received, requesting around $7.7 million in funding, highlighting the significant need for this type of support. Eligible applicants included Illinois fire departments, fire protection districts, township fire departments, and nonprofit ambulance service providers. All fire department applicants were required to have participated in the National Fire Incident Reporting System for at least two years prior to applying.