The Illinois State Fire Marshal has allocated $4 million in grants through the Small Equipment Grant Program, benefiting 178 fire departments and EMS providers across the state. This initiative provides each recipient with up to $26,000 to purchase essential firefighting and ambulance equipment, crucial for enhancing public safety. These grants aim to alleviate the financial challenges faced by these essential services, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle emergencies. Departments statewide can now upgrade their gear, improving response times and operational efficiency, a significant step towards community safety and preparedness. Officials stress the importance of continued support for these critical services.
Notable recipients include the Colona Community Fire Protection District, receiving $21,500, and Erie Fire Protection District with $23,919. The program seeks to address the financial challenges faced by these departments. Other significant allocations were granted to departments in Henry, Bureau, Whiteside, LaSalle, Kendall, and Clinton, each benefiting from funds that enhance their operational capabilities and community safety.
Henry:
Colona Community Fire Protection District $21,500
Kewanee Fire Department $21,455.46
Whiteside:
Erie Fire Protection District $23,919
Bureau:
Mineral-Gold Fire Protection District $24,991.73
Rock Island:
Hampton Fire Rescue $17,500
Peoria:
Limestone Township Fire Protection District $23,178
Dunlap Community Fire Protection District $21,985
Logan-Trivoli Fire Protection District $14,954
McDonough:
Macomb Fire Department $24,254.90
Good Hope-Sciota Fire Protection District $26,000
LaSalle:
Grand Ridge Volunteer Fire Department $16,927.50
Ottawa Fire Department $10,198
Tonica Volunteer Fire Department $10,650
Sheridan Community Fire Protection District $10,747
Kendall:
Oswego Fire Protection District $25,440
Clinton:
Wheatfield Fire Protection District $26,000
Huey Ferrin Boulder Fire Protection District $25,557.40