FEMA announced the availability of $648 million across three funding opportunities to help firefighters and first responders get the equipment, staff, and support they need. Applications for each opportunity will be accepted through June 22, 2026. Townships are encouraged to share the following with their local fire chiefs: 

• Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) to fire departments and other EMS agencies to acquire personal protective equipment and emergency response vehicles. Funds can also be used to fund health, wellness, and resiliency initiatives to prepare responders for incidents. 

• Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) funding to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations. Funds can be used to pay salaries for firefighters and to train and recruit more people into the fire service. 

• Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program to fire departments and non-profit organizations to fund research and clinical studies focused on community fire prevention and firefighter safety, health and well-being. 

Applicants are encouraged to review the resources published on FEMA’s website before applying to help develop strong applications. Additionally, several workshops will be available for each of the programs. For more information, email firegrants@fema.dhs.gov