(WAND) - Applications are open for Volunteer Fire Assistance grants.Â
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced grant applications will be accepted through February 16.Â
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service VFA federal grant program gives matching funds to help fire departments buy new equipment and helps fund training.
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Funding is passed through IDNR to local fire departments and fire training academies.Â
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The VFA grant program reimburses 50% of the recipients’ project costs up to $10,000. Grant recipients have to make the initial financial outlay for the projects before being reimbursed.
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In 2025, the program awarded $322,893 for 48 Illinois projects.
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Projects funded under previous grants include self-contained breathing apparatus, hoses, radios, and more.Â
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