SYCAMORE, Ala. – The Sycamore Volunteer Fire Department is among six Alabama fire stations to receive a $10,000 grant through the Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, a national initiative supported by State Farm and the National Volunteer Fire Council.
The program awarded $1.5 million to 150 volunteer fire departments in 44 states this year, announced Monday, Aug. 18 on Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Day.
For small, rural stations like Sycamore’s, the funding is a lifeline. Rising equipment costs often strain volunteer budgets, and the grant will allow the department to purchase critical gear to keep firefighters safe and better serve the community.
Departments can use the funds for personal protective equipment, EMS and rescue tools, communication devices, and other needs.
“Firefighting and rescue equipment is expensive, and many departments struggle to find the funding they need,” said National Volunteer Fire Council Chair Steve Hirsch. “These grants from State Farm enable small departments to secure equipment they need to be better prepared to serve their communities and protect their responders.”
Volunteer firefighters make up 65 percent of the U.S. fire service and are often the first to respond to emergencies ranging from fires and medical calls to vehicle crashes and natural disasters.
Other Alabama departments receiving grants include Catoma Volunteer Fire Department in Montgomery, Pea Ridge Fire and Rescue in Montevallo, Samson Volunteer Fire Department, Shinbone Valley Fire and Rescue in Delta, and Town Creek Volunteer Fire Department in Empire.
Since its 2024 launch, the program has provided $2.5 million to 250 volunteer fire stations nationwide.
