VILLA PARK – State Senator Tom Cullerton (D-Villa Park) is encouraging local fire departments to take advantage of the state’s Small Equipment Grant program.

The program provides $3.3 million in funding across the state for firefighting personal protection equipment, infection control items and other small equipment. Organizations can be awarded up to $26,000.

“The COVID-19 pandemic serves as a reminder that our first responders and firefighters continuously put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe and healthy,” Cullerton said. “This grant program serves as a resource to assist in ensuring they have the vital tools and resources to do their jobs effectively.”

Fire department, fire protection district and township fire department applicants are required to have participated in the National Fire Incident Reporting System for a minimum of two years prior to applying. Ambulance services applying must be volunteer, non-profit, stand-alone emergency medical service providers not tied in any financial or legal manner to a fire department. 

Applications for the Small Equipment Grant program must be postmarked no later than Jan. 29, 2021. More information on the program can be found on the state fire marshal's website.