ROCK ISLAND – State Senator Mike Halpin is encouraging fire departments to apply for the Small Equipment Grant program to help them be better equipped to protect their communities.

“When someone is in need of first responders, they should not have to worry about them not being prepared with the right equipment,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This grant program will support our first responders with the proper tools to better serve our neighbors.”

The Small Equipment Grant Program assists fire departments and not-for-profit ambulance services in Illinois, particularly those experiencing difficulty in generating the necessary revenue for small equipment. The grants allow eligible applicants the opportunity to purchase small tools and equipment they may otherwise not be able to afford.

A total of $4 million in funding will be available through this year’s program to eligible fire departments and EMS services. All interested departments should send an application to OSFM electronically or postmarked no later than Oct. 1, 2024.

For more information or to fill out an application, visit the OSFM’s website.