In Conjunction with the U.S. Fire Administration, the Office for Domestic Preparedness announced the regional workshop schedule today for the Fiscal Year 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program.

The free workshops explain the competitive grant process for fire departments and will begin at the end of January and continue through March 2004 in locations throughout the country. Workshop leaders will present information on the program and the application process and will offer general assistance in writing a competitive narrative for a FIRE grant application. Click here for a list of the currently scheduled workshops on the USFA Web site.

Through the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act of 2004, Congress has appropriated $750 million for the FY 2004 Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program, or FIRE grants, and transferred administration of the program from FEMA to ODP. ODP officials have been working closely with officials from the USFA and FEMA to ensure a smooth and seamless transition. As in past years, the Application Kit and Guidance for the FY 2004 grant funds will be available in mid-March 2004, and are expected to be posted on both ODP and USFA Web sites, according to DHS. The application period is expected to be a 30-day window beginning in March.

“The Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program is a critical element in ensuring that the nation’s fire service has the equipment and resources they require to effectively serve the American public. The continuation of this program represents Secretary Ridge’s and the Administration’s commitment to our nation’s firefighters and their vital work,” said C. Suzanne Mencer, director of the Office for Domestic Preparedness.  

For more information regarding the FIRE Grants, contact the USFA at 1-866-274-0960 or at usfagrants@fema.gov. For updates on the program, check the USFA Web site at www.usfa.fema.gov,  the Office for Domestic Preparedness Web site at www.ojp.usdoj.gov/odp and www.firechief.com.