Volunteer Fire Department Grant

The Volunteer Fire Department Grant (VFDG), administered by the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS), is a state-funded initiative aimed at bolstering fire protection services provided by small-scale, volunteer, or combination fire departments throughout Missouri. This program offers direct financial support to qualifying agencies that deliver fire suppression and related emergency services, particularly to communities with limited resources. It is designed in alignment with Missouri statute section 320.200(3) RSMo, which outlines eligible fire protection activities including fire prevention, emergency medical response, hazardous material handling, rescue, and special operations. The SFY 2026 VFDG seeks to strengthen the operational capabilities of volunteer and combination fire departments operating with an annual budget of $50,000 or less. Eligible applicants must also comply with section 320.271 RSMo by maintaining annual registration with the Missouri State Fire Marshal. In total, the program makes $1,455,000 available, with a maximum individual grant award of $15,000. Each grant requires a 5% cash match from the applicant agency. For example, a total project cost of $15,789.47 would require a recipient contribution of $789.47. Funding may be used to purchase essential equipment and supplies, with specific guidelines for items such as turnout gear and radio interoperability devices. Applicants requesting turnout gear must submit a department policy for gear maintenance and cleaning. Any communications equipment must comply with SAFECOM Guidance and Missouri DPS’s Radio Interoperability Guidelines. Equipment applications will be reviewed by the Missouri Interoperability Center to ensure compliance, and supporting quotes must accompany all such requests. Notably, costs related to vehicles, construction, personnel, or military-type equipment are expressly ineligible. Applications for the SFY 2026 cycle open on October 15, 2025, and will be accepted on a rolling basis until the program's allocated funds are fully awarded. Submissions are processed through the DPS WebGrants system, with awards distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Required documents include a completed application package, budget details, agency contact forms, and any necessary supporting materials such as maintenance policies and vendor quotes. For guidance and support, applicants may contact DPS Grant Specialists Maria Robinett, Joanne Talleur, or Grants Supervisor Chelsey Call. The projected grant performance period spans from December 15, 2025, to May 15, 2026. Given the nature of the application timeline and structure, the VFDG operates as a recurring annual grant program, providing consistent support to Missouri’s fire protection community.

Ensure radio interoperability equipment requests meet MOSWIN and SAFECOM guidelines. Contact MIC before applying for radios to avoid disqualification.