Local Fire Departments to Receive $1.5 Million through the 2025 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program
This year, 150 local volunteer fire departments will receive a $10,000 grant through the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program to buy equipment that improves responder safety and effectiveness. This marks the program's second year, funded by State Farm and administered by the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC).
“We are thrilled to work with State Farm to better equip our local volunteer fire departments,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “Volunteer firefighters are the lifeblood of our communities, yet many departments struggle to find the funding for the equipment and tools they need. Thanks to these grants from State Farm, we can help make sure our responders are better prepared for when the call comes in.”
“At State Farm part of our mission is to help people manage the risks of everyday life. We are committed to helping build safer, stronger, better educated communities,” said Rasheed Merritt, State Farm corporate responsibility assistant vice president. “We are proud to support the safety of volunteer firefighters – the ultimate good neighbors who risk their lives each and every day.”
In addition to the grants, the first 2,000 applicants will receive an NVFC membership, courtesy of State Farm. Membership comes with a variety of benefits that support responders and help them be at their best on and off the job.
The application period will be open for three days only – from 12:00am ET on June 4 through 11:59pm ET on June 6. To be eligible to apply, departments must be over 50 percent volunteer, serve a population of 25,000 or less, have an annual revenue no more than $250,000, and be located in the U.S. and legally organized under state law. Grants can be used to fund a variety of equipment, including PPE, technology, communication devices, rescue tools, and more.
Departments can get ready now to ensure they have the information they need to complete the application during the three-day window. Resources including the full criteria, application guidance, eligible equipment list, and frequently asked questions are now available at www.nvfc.org/statefarm.
Read about the recipients of the 2024 Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program here. Find more opportunities for the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services at www.nvfc.org/opportunities.
About State Farm
For over 100 years, the mission of State Farm has been to help people manage the risks of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize their dreams. State Farm and its affiliates are the largest providers of auto and home insurance in the United States. Its more than 19,000 agents and 67,000 employees serve over 91 million policies and accounts – including auto, fire, life, health, commercial policies and financial services accounts. Commercial auto insurance, along with coverage for renters, business owners, boats and motorcycles, is also available. State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company is the parent of the State Farm family of companies. State Farm is ranked No. 39 on the 2024 Fortune 500 list of largest companies. For more information, please visit http://www.statefarm.com.
About the National Volunteer Fire Council
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue services. The NVFC serves as the voice of the volunteer in the national arena and provides critical resources, programs, education, and advocacy for first responders across the nation. Learn more at www.nvfc.org.
