Rural Volunteer Fire Departments

$2 million to 50+ Communities 

In small, rural Iowa communities, fire departments play a vital role in safeguarding their communities and are important to the success and wellbeing of the towns they serve. Sadly, they often operate with limited resources to sustain their operations. City budgets typically only cover essential expenses, such as vehicles and maintenance. Fire department members are often unpaid volunteers, which leaves little funding for required uniform gear and essential life-saving equipment.

Over the years, more than $2 million in funding from the Iowa West Foundation has allowed volunteer departments to purchase necessary equipment, like thermal imagers that help identify hot spots in fires, flashlights for scene lighting, and industrial-grade hoses. Grants also fund safety gear. One set of bunker gear can cost nearly $4,000, yet is mandatory for firefighting. The federal government also requires high-visibility gear for first responders on a major highway. With the rural population decline, volunteer numbers fall as well. The Foundation’s assistance outfitting and equipping volunteers is vital to recruiting and retaining members.

“Firefighting gear costs have risen significantly over the years, making it hard for volunteer fire departments. Iowa West Foundation grants bridge this gap. Funding allows us to purchase necessary tools and equipment and keeps volunteers safe.”

– Galen Barrett, Former Crescent Volunteer Fire Department Chief

Grant Details

The Iowa West Foundation has awarded more than $2 million for essential equipment and safety gear to 50+ communities in the Southwest Iowa region since its inception. Every year, volunteer fire departments in Pottawattamie County can apply for $10,000 to cover equipment. Fire departments outside of Pottawattamie County can apply for $4,000 each year. Each department matches the donations.

Grant Outcomes

The Iowa West Foundation is dedicated to supporting these departments to ensure rural needs can be met. Volunteer fire and rescue departments are dedicated to:

• Providing safer communities
• Playing an active role in fire safety education
• Fostering a strong sense of community pride
• Promoting the overall wellbeing of rural communities