187 local fire departments split nearly $15M in grants

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A hundred and eighty-seven local fire and safety agencies in Michigan will be splitting part of a $14,826,451 grant from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Development.

“Ensuring the safety and well-being of our firefighters is paramount,” LEO Director Susan Corbin said in a release. “This grant will provide essential gear that allows our firefighters to respond more effectively to emergencies, protecting both themselves and the public. We are committed to supporting the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.”

Several West Michigan agencies will be receiving money including:

• Battle Creek: $266,000
• Grand Rapids: $640,884
• Holland: $77,000
• Kentwood: $66,500
• Muskegon: $82,500
• Norton Shores: $87,500
• Wyoming: $136,000

The money can be used to purchase an additional set of turnout gear for full-time career firefighters. This set includes a coat, pants and boots.

“The gear will provide full-time firefighters with a clean set of gear to switch into after a fire, instead of waiting until the end of the shift to properly clean the gear, improving response time,” the release said.

The funds were part of the Fiscal Year 2024 State Budge enhancement grants administered by LEO.

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