The application period for the Assistance to Firefighters Fire Station Construction Grants now is open. Applications for these grants must be received by July 10 at 5 p.m. EST.

The grants were established under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and will provide financial assistance directly to fire departments on a competitive basis to build new or modify existing fire stations to enhance their response capability and protect the community they serve from fire and fire-related hazards.

The e-application and an applicant tutorial are available at www.firegrantsupport.com. The tutorial provides grant information and walks applicants through the preparation and submittal of competitive applications. In addition, the applicant tutorial provides an overview of the funding priorities and evaluation criteria.

During the application period, the help desk will operate Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST. However, the help desk will close at 4:30 p.m., on Friday, July 3 and will not be open on Saturday, July 4. Applicants who have should contact the help desk at 866-274-0960 or at firegrants@dhs.gov.