BRAIDWOOD – Building on his strong commitment to public safety, State Senator Patrick Joyce secured nearly $2,500 for the Braidwood Fire Protection District to help with purchasing new equipment or paying for fire training.
“Rural fire districts often cover much larger service areas than those in the city,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “With that comes the challenges of managing large territories alongside a statewide firefighter shortage, leaving rural departments stretched thin on resources and volunteers. That is why it is critical we secure funding for districts like Braidwood, to ensure that all Illinoisans are protected equally. ”
The Volunteer Fire Capacity grant program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, matches funds to aid fire departments in the purchase of new equipment and helps fund training. Funding is passed through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to local fire departments and fire training academies.
The 73 grantees provide fire protection to about 250,000 Illinois residents, primarily in rural areas of Illinois. Braidwood Fire Protection District, located in the district Joyce represents, received nearly $2,500.
Additional information about grant requirements and opportunities can be found on IDNR’s website.
