Volunteer Fire Assistance Program
The Volunteer Fire Assistance Program funds rural Illinois fire departments to improve fire protection through equipment, gear, and technical upgrades, focusing on areas of greatest need and collaborative improvements.
Funder: Illinois Department of Natural Resources
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 | April 2027
Funding Amounts: Up to $10,000 per department (50% cost-share); no single item may exceed $4,999.
Summary: Supports rural and small Illinois fire departments with funding for equipment and projects to enhance fire protection capabilities.
Key Information: This is a forecasted opportunity; all deadlines and details are subject to change.
Description
The Volunteer Fire Assistance Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Division of Forestry and funded by the USDA Forest Service, provides cost-share grants to rural and small fire departments in Illinois. The program aims to improve fire response and protection in communities with populations under 10,000, focusing on areas of greatest need, wildland/urban interfaces, and public lands. Grants fund up to 50% of eligible project costs, with a maximum award of $10,000 per department. Supported projects include the purchase of firefighting equipment, personal protective gear, communications devices, and modifications to federal excess vehicles. Special consideration is given to departments converting federal vehicles, those with significant equipment loss, and those improving mutual aid agreements.
