NVFC Awarded FY 2024 Fire Prevention and Safety Grant to Support Health, Safety, and Training Initiatives

October 14, 2025

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) has been awarded an FY 2024 Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to continue its vital work in enhancing the health, safety, and wellbeing of the nation’s volunteer fire, EMS, and rescue personnel. This grant will enable the NVFC to continue its longstanding efforts to improve responder health and safety through targeted awareness campaigns, expanded training opportunities, and critical support resources for volunteers nationwide.

Specifically, the new grant will fund:

  • A national awareness campaign focused on responder health and safety messaging
  • In-person and virtual training programs to enhance knowledge and readiness
  • The NVFC Training Summits in 2026 and 2027, bringing together responders from across the country for hands-on learning and collaboration
  • Ongoing support for the NVFC First Responder Helpline, which provides immediate, confidential assistance to responders and their families in times of need

FP&S grants are part of FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program and support projects that enhance the safety of both the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards. Through previous FP&S grants, the NVFC has implemented programs such as the Share the Load behavioral health initiative, Heart-Healthy Firefighter Program, and Psychologically Healthy Fire Departments initiative, as well as released numerous resources on cancer prevention, injury reduction, and safety culture.

“The NVFC is grateful to FEMA for continuing to invest in the health and safety of our nation’s volunteer first responders,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “This funding allows us to strengthen our outreach, expand training, and ensure responders have the tools and support they need to stay safe, healthy, and ready to serve their communities.”

Learn more about the NVFC’s health, safety, and training initiatives at www.nvfc.org/servestrong.

About the NVFC
The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is the leading nonprofit membership association representing the interests of the volunteer fire and emergency medical services. The NVFC unites and supports volunteer and combination fire and EMS organizations through education, advocacy, leadership development, and collaboration. Guided by professionalism and innovation, we provide the tools and resources needed to protect communities, advance responder health and safety, and prepare leaders for the future. Learn more and join at www.nvfc.org.