Published on June 10, 2026 6:36 pm
Last Updated on June 10, 2026 6:37 pm
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has awarded $495,000 in federal grants to 73 volunteer fire departments across the state to help with purchasing new equipment or paying for fire training. Several local departments were among those receiving grants.
The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. The program provides matching funds to aid fire departments in the purchase of new equipment and helps fund training. Funding is passed through IDNR to local fire departments and fire training academies.
The 73 grantees provide fire protection to about 250,000 Illinois residents, primarily in rural areas of Illinois.
“IDNR is pleased to support fire protection districts that are necessary to protecting lives and property in some of the most underserved areas of Illinois,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie. “These grants will fund critical equipment and training resources for rural communities throughout the state.”
The VFC grant program (formerly the Volunteer Fire Assistance program) reimburses 50% of the recipients’ project costs up to $10,000. Grant recipients must make the initial financial outlay for the projects before being reimbursed.
In 2025, the program awarded $322,893 for 48 Illinois projects. The types of projects that have been funded under previous grants include radios, hoses, self-contained breathing apparatus, turn-out gear, wildland personal protective equipment, hand tools, chainsaws, backpack blowers, modifying federal excess vehicles and equipment, and other equipment.
“Volunteer firefighters and rural fire protection districts are essential to keeping our communities safe,” said State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon). “In many small towns and rural areas, these departments are made up of neighbors who step up to serve and protect others, often with limited resources. These grants will help provide critical equipment and support so first responders can continue doing their jobs safely and effectively. I’m grateful to see these investments coming back to the communities of the 53rd District.”
“No matter what Illinois community our residents call home, their safety matters, and they deserve access to reliable emergency fire services,” said State Senator Napoleon Harris III (D-Harvey). “These grants will help fire departments buy the equipment and resources they need to keep residents safe.”
Additional information about grant requirements and opportunities can be found on the IDNR grants website and the Illinois Catalog of State Financial Assistance.
Clay County
North Clay Fire Protection District, $10,000
Coles County
Lincoln Fire Protection District, $8,861
Effingham County
Montrose Fire Protection District, $4,568
Teutopolis Fire Protection District, $5,367.50
Tri-County Fire Protection District, $9,958
Watson Fire Protection District, $4,908
Shelby County
Oconee Fire Department, $7,000
