WASHINGTON — Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced Monday that it is making $648 million available through three major grant programs designed to help firefighters and first responders stay safe while protecting communities across the country.
According to FEMA, the funding will help fire departments and emergency response organizations hire personnel, purchase new equipment, improve staffing levels, and support firefighter health and wellness initiatives.
“When a disaster strikes, firefighters and other first responders are often the first ones on the scene, making them a critical component of every community’s emergency response capabilities,” said Robert Fenton, Senior Official Performing the Duties of FEMA Administrator.
FEMA said the funding will be distributed through three separate grant programs:
- $291.6 million through the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program for fire departments and EMS agencies. Funding can be used for personal protective equipment, emergency vehicles, responder training, and wellness programs.
- $324 million through the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program. These grants help departments hire and retain firefighters and support recruitment efforts for volunteer fire departments.
- $32.4 million through the Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program. Funding supports research, clinical studies, and fire prevention programs focused on firefighter safety and community protection.
FEMA says applications for all three programs open May 19, 2026, and close June 22, 2026.
Eligible departments and organizations can review grant details and application information through FEMA.gov
