Dupage Policy Journal

State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro announced the beneficiaries of the 2024 Small Equipment Grant Program in partnership with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. The program disbursed $4 million to 178 fire departments, fire protection districts, and non-profit ambulance services throughout Illinois. Each recipient was eligible to receive up to $26,000 for purchasing essential equipment like turnout gear and self-contained breathing apparatuses.

Rep. Sanalitro expressed her support for the program, stating, “This program delivers much-needed funding to fire departments and EMS providers across the state. I’m thrilled to see support our local first responders getting the tools they need to do their jobs safely and effectively.”

Fire departments in Rep. Sanalitro’s district benefiting from the grants include Elk Grove Village Fire Department, Bloomingdale Fire Protection District #1, Itasca Fire Protection District, and Wood Dale Fire Protection District. To be eligible, applicants were required to participate in the National Fire Incident Reporting System for at least two years before applying.

“Illinois firefighters and EMS personnel are some of the best in the country,” Rep. Sanalitro said. “This grant program is a smart investment in public safety, and I’ll continue advocating for support and resources for our first responders.”

More information on the grant program and the complete list of recipients can be found at the Illinois State Fire Marshal's website.