Grant funding will increase local capacity to respond to disasters and emergencies

WASHINGTON — Over the past week, FEMA awarded $648 million in grant funding to more than 1,600 fire departments and other first responder organizations nationwide. The funding will help first responders secure the equipment, staffing and support needed.

The agency said in a press release that the funding aligns with President Trump’s America First Resilience Strategy, which calls for redirecting power away from Washington and back into communities.

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“Firefighters and other first responders are everyday heroes, helping their neighbors and communities when they need it most,” FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton said. “Through this grant funding, FEMA is building the capability of these local organizations to respond to disasters and emergencies. By empowering fire departments to get the staff, training and equipment they need, FEMA is strengthening the resilience of American communities nationwide.”

FEMA administered the grants through its three grant programs:

• $291.6 million was awarded to more than 1,400 fire departments and EMS agencies through the FY 2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grants. Recipients can use the funding for protective equipment, emergency response vehicles, staff training and health initiatives to prepare responders for incidents.
• The program awarded $324 million to nearly 200 fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations through the FY 2025 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant program. Recipients will use the money for firefighter personnel costs, recruitment and retention.
• The FY 2025 Fire Prevention and Safety grant program awarded $32.4 million to more than 60 fire departments, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations. Recipients will use the money for research and technology aimed at strengthening fire prevention and improving firefighter safety and well-being.

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