The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants through February 16th.

The federal funds are passed through the IDNR to local fire departments and training academies to help purchase essential equipment, including radios, fire hoses, wildland protective equipment, hand tools, and chainsaws. The funding also helps cover expenses related to training and the modification of excess federal vehicles and equipment.

Last year, the state of Illinois was awarded over $322,000 for 48 projects across the state. The VFA grant program reimburses 50% of the recipients’ project costs up to $10,000.

More information about grant requirements and opportunities can be found here.