This week Senator Monica R. Martinez announced the launch of the Volunteer Fire Infrastructure and Response Equipment (V-FIRE) grant program, which will provide $25 million in capital funding for New York State volunteer fire departments to support upgrades and improvements to fire stations, training facilities, and equipment supplies. Funding for this new program was secured in the FY 2023-24 state budget after gaining widespread support by public safety advocates, local governments, and volunteer firefighters across the state. It comes in addition to $10 million included in the FY 2023-24 budget for stipends to aid in the recruitment and retention of these volunteers. These funds will help offset the ongoing fiscal challenges posed to volunteer fire departments while also supporting increased services to communities across New York.
“Fire departments in my district and across Long Island have communicated the need for funding to support capital improvements ranging from complete renovations to new garage doors or generators to continue protecting the safety of our communities. The kind of training volunteer firefighters now undergo is vastly different than a decade ago with the rise in lithium-ion battery fires and providing additional recovery support in natural disasters. It is imperative we protect and serve those who protect and serve us. This funding is paramount, and I am proud to have secured it this year with my colleagues in the Senate Majority,” said Senator Monica R. Martinez.
The New York State Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) are accepting applications for V-FIRE funding until April 30, 2024 via the DHSES E-Grants system.
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