Millions in grants transform how volunteer firefighters protect US communities
Iain Hoey
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150 fire departments receive funding for equipment
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported that 150 volunteer fire departments across 44 US states have each received a $10,000 grant from State Farm, totalling $1.5 million.
The NVFC explained that the grants are part of the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, announced on 18 August, which coincided with Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Day.
According to the NVFC, volunteer firefighters make up 65% of the US fire service and respond to a wide range of emergencies including structure fires, wildland incidents, vehicle crashes, medical events, natural disasters and hazardous materials cases.
The organisation added that many small and rural departments face budget limitations, making it difficult to cover the rising costs of equipment and gear needed to support community response.
It stated that the grants will allow departments to purchase protective clothing, rescue tools, emergency medical equipment and communication devices.
Volunteer firefighters’ reliance on community support
The NVFC explained that volunteer fire departments are often the first line of defence for small communities, but lack of funding places constraints on their ability to serve.
It noted that grants such as these are essential to improve responder safety, operational efficiency and service to the public.
The council added that the programme aims to strengthen local capacity and reduce the risks volunteers face in daily operations.
It reported that the $1.5 million total donation will directly address shortfalls in equipment supply.
Statements from NVFC and State Farm
NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch said: “The NVFC is proud to team up with State Farm to continue the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program and provide critical assistance to volunteer fire departments.
“Firefighting and rescue equipment is expensive, and many departments struggle to find the funding they need.
“These grants from State Farm enable small departments to secure equipment they need to be better prepared to serve their communities and protect their responders.”
State Farm corporate responsibility assistant vice president Rasheed Merritt said: “We are proud to support volunteer firefighters – the ultimate good neighbors who risk their lives daily.
“At State Farm, we’re committed to helping people manage everyday risks and building safer, stronger communities.”
Community engagement activities planned
The NVFC noted that State Farm and the organisation will also participate in local community events this autumn alongside 10 of the recipient departments.
It added that these events could take the form of open houses, fire prevention activities, parades or other local gatherings designed to highlight community involvement.
The council explained that the events will provide a direct opportunity for residents to connect with local fire services.
It confirmed that the gatherings will help highlight the purpose of the grant funding.
Additional benefits for applicants
The NVFC reported that in addition to the 150 grants, State Farm has provided complimentary NVFC memberships to the first 2,000 eligible applicants.
It explained that these memberships give responders access to training, peer support and other member services.
The organisation added that the memberships aim to strengthen the skills and knowledge base of volunteer firefighters.
It noted that this initiative is intended to extend benefits beyond the direct grant recipients.
Growth of the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program
According to the NVFC, the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program was launched in 2024.
It stated that since the start of the initiative, $2.5 million has been awarded to 250 local departments across the US.
The council noted that the programme is intended to provide sustainable funding for equipment and training over time.
It explained that full details of the 2025 recipients are available on the NVFC website.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The NVFC programme illustrates how external partnerships can provide targeted financial support to volunteer fire departments facing resource challenges.
For professionals, this highlights the role of grant funding as a mechanism for improving access to protective equipment and operational tools.
It also shows how organisations can integrate funding with additional benefits, such as memberships and training opportunities, to extend support beyond the initial financial aid.
These approaches may provide models for other funding initiatives in the fire and safety sector.
State Farm and NVFC award $1.5 million in grants to US volunteer fire departments: Summary
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has reported that 150 fire departments in 44 states each received $10,000 grants from State Farm.
The grants totalled $1.5 million.
The programme is called the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program.
The announcement was made on 18 August, Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Day.
Volunteer firefighters make up 65% of the US fire service.
The NVFC said that many small departments struggle with budgets and equipment costs.
The grants will fund personal protective equipment, medical and rescue tools, and communication devices.
State Farm and the NVFC will attend community engagement events this autumn with 10 recipient departments.
State Farm also provided complimentary NVFC memberships to the first 2,000 applicants.
The NVFC explained that memberships provide training and support services.
Since 2024, the programme has awarded $2.5 million to 250 departments.
Details of recipients are available on the NVFC website.