The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has published guidance for navigating federal grants, specifically the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant programs, as reported by IAFF.
These grants provide critical funding for fire departments to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
AFG grants can be used for acquiring equipment like personal protective gear, training, and fire station modifications.
SAFER grants focus on staffing needs, supporting departments in hiring additional personnel to meet safety standards.
In FY 2023, IAFF affiliates secured 393 AFG awards totaling $109,713,000 and 62 SAFER awards amounting to $250,055,000.
General President Edward Kelly emphasized the grants’ importance, stating: “These federal grants help our Locals get the resources they need to do the job and stay safe. In no uncertain terms, these grants save lives.”
Applying for these grants requires a collaborative approach between labor and management.
IAFF advises fire departments to establish strong relationships between these groups, as many grants must be submitted by fire department management.
Chris Hamm, President of Orange County, CA Local 3631, highlighted the benefits of such cooperation: “Our fire chief has made it clear he wants the same things we do: adequate staffing and resources to keep us safe on the job while delivering the best service to the community.”
His Local successfully secured a $6 million SAFER grant to add 15 firefighters.
To strengthen applications, IAFF recommends gathering data such as budget information, staffing levels, and response statistics.
Applicants can seek help from the IAFF’s grant assistance team or attend grant-writing training offered at IAFF events like the Affiliate Leadership Training Summit.
Fire departments can also turn to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which administers AFG and SAFER grants.
FEMA publishes a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) guide outlining eligibility, application steps, and priority items for funding.
FEMA also offers webinars during the application period for further guidance.
Local fire departments, like South Strand Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics Local 4940 in South Carolina, have used IAFF and FEMA resources successfully.
They secured an AFG to install diesel exhaust systems in their firehouses, addressing a critical safety need.
President Bradford Bemis noted: “The IAFF made its staff available to us throughout the process, which ultimately led to our success.”
Experienced grant writers suggest crafting concise narratives focusing on four key areas: statement of effect, cost benefit, project description, and financial need.
Applications should clearly explain the department’s challenges, financial constraints, and how the funding will improve public safety.
Bill Mastroianni, a grant writer from Euclid, OH Local 337, stressed the importance of clarity: “Explain why your situation is bad and why it deserves funding. But keep in mind, you can only use three to four thousand characters.”
Common tips include providing specific examples, connecting requests to public safety, and avoiding overly technical language.
IAFF advises departments to start early, allow time for multiple drafts, and avoid using artificial intelligence to generate content.
The IAFF has released guidance to assist fire departments in navigating the FY 2024 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) application processes.
These programs provide funding for essential equipment, staffing, and operational needs.
Departments are encouraged to collaborate between labor and management, utilize IAFF and FEMA resources, and follow best practices for writing clear, concise grant applications.
The application period for the FY 2024 AFG program closes on December 20.
