Stuart Highlights Applications Open for Small Equipment Grant Program

COLLINSIVILLE, Ill. – State Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, is highlighting the application opening for the small equipment grant program for local fire departments and ambulance services that are in need of purchasing new small equipment.

“This grant program helps departments make sure that they have the equipment that they need to do their jobs effectively and safely,” said Stuart, “Even small equipment is expensive and can put a strain on the limited financial resources that many departments have. This grant program helps to reduce that burden on departments and ambulance services and help with the cost of purchasing the necessary tools they need.”

The grant program can provide up to $26,000 for equipment costs and most Illinois fire departments, fire protection districts and township fire departments are eligible to apply, along with ambulance services that are a not-for-profit emergency medical service provider. Stuart wants departments to know that they can use the grant for personal protective equipment, like masks, gloves, or other equipment to protect staff from COVID-19 exposure. Applications are open until January 29, 2021, and more information and the application can be found  here.

“I encourage all of our local fire departments and ambulance services to check if they are eligible to apply for the grant program to assist with the costs of any needed equipment,” said Stuart. “These grants can make sure that our emergency providers have the equipment they need to do their jobs effectively as they serve our communities.”