Today, Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon announced that $25 million in capital grants that she introduced and supported, are available to local volunteer fire departments through the Volunteer Fire Services Capital Fund. The Volunteer Fire Services Capital Fund was established in the 2023-2024 New York State Budget.

“I have had the privilege of speaking with our brave local volunteer firefighters; they have made me aware of the financial difficulties they face daily,” said Assemblywoman Buttenschon. “With the announcement today from the Governor’s office, volunteer fire departments here in the 119^th will have access to crucial funding that can be used to upgrade their facilities and purchase lifesaving equipment.”

The Volunteer Fire Services Capital Fund provides $20 million for construction, renovation, and/or facility purchase projects and $5 million for personal protective equipment (PPE) and radio/communication equipment.

“I encourage all volunteer fire departments in the 119^th district to apply for a capital grant through the Volunteer Fire Services Capital Fund,” said Buttenschon. “Applications for the grant are available on the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services website and must be completed by April 30^th.”

In addition to establishing the fire department capital fund, the New York State Budget also establishes a training fund and a college scholarship for volunteer firefighters. The training fund will repay volunteers for any work missed by attending training.

“Our brave volunteer firefighters put their lives on the line every day to serve our community. I will continue to advocate for their needs in the Assembly and ensure our heroes have the resources needed to protect us."