Georgia-Pacific Bucket Brigade Awards $207,000 in Fire Department Grants

October 13, 2015

When a massive red fire engine barrels down the street, sirens blaring, most people probably think of a fire. But every day, firefighters are often first responders to wide array of emergencies in our communities, including medical situations, natural disasters, hazardous materials incidents, and even terrorist events. But did you know that nearly 70 percent of all U.S. firefighters are volunteers?

The Georgia-Pacific Bucket Brigade grant program is designed to support local fire departments and the brave volunteers who keep us safe every day. This year, Georgia-Pacific proudly awarded $207,000 in Bucket Brigade grants to 45 fire departments for equipment critical to firefighters’ safety.

Since the Bucket Brigade program started in 2006, Georgia-Pacific has given more than $1.75 million in cash and educational materials to fire departments that serve their facility communities across the country.

This year, Bucket Brigade grants range from $1,000 to $8,000 and span 22 states. Grants are based on need and are funded by the Georgia-Pacific Foundation and local facilities. Fire departments often use these funds to purchase new protective clothing and replace items such as damaged safety gear and aging equipment.

All grant applicants also receive free memberships to the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), which provides access to tools, resources, programs, and advocacy for first-responders across the nation.

“The Georgia-Pacific Bucket Brigade program provides funds directly to departments in need,” said NVFC Chief Executive Officer Heather Schafer. “The NVFC is pleased to partner with Georgia-Pacific to maintain the health and safety of the fire service and the citizens they serve.”

Click here to see the list of the 2015 grant recipients. To learn more about firefighter statistics, click on this infographic and view this video.