Senator Michelle Hinchey has announced that the application portal is now open for the $25 million Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment Grant Program (V-FIRE), which she developed as part of the FY2024 State Budget. Volunteer fire departments across New York State can now apply for grant funding through the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) to support equipment and building upgrades.

Hinchey said, “New York’s first-ever Volunteer Fire Services Capital Fund is finally open — a huge win for our first responders and local taxpayers that I’m proud to have led the charge in creating. This new capital fund is not only an investment in the safety of our communities but also in the first responders who are always there to answer the call. It’s a privilege to champion support for New York’s volunteer firehouses, and I encourage all to take advantage of the funds available.”