Rep. Lowell Russell announces $936K in grant awards for local fire departments, rescue squads
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonore, announced $936,405 in grant funding was awarded to 17 volunteer fire departments and rescue squads in Loudon and Monroe counties.
The 114th General Assembly appropriated $50 million over the last two years to support volunteer firefighters and rescue squad members across Tennessee.
“Volunteer firefighters and rescue squad members play a critical role in protecting our rural communities and they deserve access to reliable equipment and the training they need to do their jobs safely,” Russell said. “This funding will strengthen local emergency response efforts and ensure these dedicated volunteers have the resources necessary to help save lives.”
Volunteer fire departments receiving funding include:
- Christianburg Fire Department: $53,788
- Citico Volunteer Fire Department: $64,500
- Madisonville Fire Department: $64,500
- Coker Creek Volunteer Fire Department: $52,592
- Conasauga Valley Volunteer Fire Department: $50,815
- Greenback Volunteer Fire Department: $45,330
- Gudger Community Volunteer Fire Department: $47,608
- Hopewell Volunteer Fire Department: $51,048
- Mt. Vernon Volunteer Fire Department: $50,089
- Notchey Creek Volunteer Fire Department: $47,725
- Rafter Volunteer Fire Department: $51,985
- Vonore Volunteer Fire Department: $36,036
- Tri Community Volunteer Fire Department: $46,361
- Turkey Creek Fire Department: $90,424
Rescue squads receiving funding include:
- Sweetwater Fire Rescue: $102,885
- Monroe County Rescue Squad: $35,615
- Loudon County Fire Rescue: $45,104
Both the Volunteer Firefighter Equipment and Training (VFEAT) and Rescue Squad grant programs are administered by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO).
A recent survey found that 71% of Tennessee’s fire departments are staffed entirely by volunteers, with an estimated 12,460 of the state’s 21,075 active firefighters serving as volunteers, according to the TDCI. The department also reported more than 90 rescue squads serve communities across the state.
For more information on the grant process and how to apply during the next application period, visit the TDCI website at https://www.tn.gov/commerce/fire/grant-opportunities.html.
Lowell Russell represents District 21 in the Tennessee House of Representatives which includes parts of Loudon and Monroe counties.
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