Hinsdale Volunteer Fire Dept. Receives State Grant

New York’s new $10 million Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program has paid out its first $140,250 to a total of 105 trainees from more than 50 fire departments statewide, including $750 for the Hinsdale Volunteer Fire Department.

“Volunteer firefighters put their lives on the line each day out of a selfless dedication to serving and protecting our communities,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a press release issued Friday. “These investments affirm our commitment to their service, and to the vital role they play in keeping New Yorkers safe.”

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The Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program is designed to strengthen the volunteer fire service by offsetting the costs of required training, making it easier for new recruits to join volunteer fire departments and help protect their communities.

Approximately nine million New Yorkers, nearly half of the state’s population, are served by volunteer firefighters.

“Volunteer firefighters provide a critical service in so many New York communities that do not have a full-time paid department,” NYS Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said. “Training should not be a barrier to those who want to serve.”

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