Metro East Sun

State Senator Erica Harriss, in conjunction with the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM), has announced the distribution of over a dozen Small Equipment Grants to fire departments within Madison and St. Clair counties, encompassing the 56th Senate District.

“These departments are the backbone of emergency response in our communities,” said Senator Harriss. “This funding will help ensure they have the tools and equipment they need to respond quickly and safely. I’m proud to support the brave men and women who protect us every day."

The 2025 Small Equipment Grant recipients in Madison County include the Long Lake Fire Protection District with $25,965, Mitchell Fire Protection District receiving $26,000, and Fosterburg Fire Protection District granted $8,684. Other recipients are Roxana Fire Department with $25,149, Alton Fire Department receiving $26,000, Worden Fire Protection District and Hartford Fire Department both with $26,000, Maryville Village Fire Department receiving $15,265, Grantfork Fire Protection District with $25,002.20, and South Roxana Fire Protection District receiving $25,557.

In St. Clair County, the Belleville Fire Department has been awarded $15,315, St. Libory Fire Protection District $25,800, Mascoutah Fire Department $25,812, and Marissa Volunteer Fire Protection District $25,200.

The OSFM reported receiving 347 applications with total requested funding amounting to $7.7 million for this grant cycle.