New Jersey Fire Departments Receive $20 Million in Federal Grants for Essential Equipment

The state directs American Rescue Plan funds to enhance safety and operational efficiency for firefighters across New Jersey.

TRENTON, NJ – The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has allocated $20 million to 353 local and regional fire departments across New Jersey, sourced from the American Rescue Plan (ARP). This funding, aimed at supporting the acquisition of critical protective, cleaning, and sanitization equipment, marks the continuation of efforts to ensure the safety and effectiveness of fire services statewide. The initiative builds on a previous allocation of $10 million in ARP funds, which benefited 293 fire departments in November 2022.

This round of grants was determined through a competitive application process, with the aim of addressing the pressing needs of fire departments for modern and compliant safety gear. The funding is designated for items such as protective clothing, advanced cleaning equipment, breathing apparatuses, and personal protective equipment (PPE), catering to the essential requirements for firefighter protection and the safety of the communities they serve.

Highlighting the program's objectives, DCA Acting Commissioner Jacquelyn A. Suárez emphasized the grants' role in enabling fire departments to procure necessary equipment without straining local finances. The initiative reflects ongoing state and federal efforts to bolster the resources available to first responders, ensuring they are equipped to face the challenges of their duty with the latest safety standards.

To qualify for the grant funding, fire departments were required to outline their intended purchases, demonstrate management oversight for the use of funds, and obtain approval through a governing body resolution. The evaluation criteria for awarding the grants included the demonstrated need for equipment, the volume of service calls, and the level of local commitment to enhancing firefighter safety.

The American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grants operate on a reimbursement basis, ensuring that departments are refunded for eligible expenses upon submission of payment evidence to the DCA. This process aims to facilitate accountability and efficient use of the federal funds.

Information on the grant recipients and the specific amounts awarded is available on the DCA’s website. This financial assistance is part of broader efforts to support fire departments in New Jersey, highlighting the critical importance of well-equipped and trained emergency response teams in maintaining public safety and community well-being.