State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonore, is encouraging local rescue squads to apply for grant awards through the state’s Rescue Squad Grant Program.
Application window closes at 1 p.m. EST on Feb. 21
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonore, is encouraging local rescue squads to apply for grant awards through the state’s Rescue Squad Grant Program.
The 113th General Assembly approved $3 million in grant funding for Tennessee rescue squads to purchase lifesaving equipment. Rescue squads provide a range of specialized services including extrication, structural collapse response and swift water rescue. Through two grant cycles, the program has provided $5 million to local rescue squads.
“Rescue squad equipment can be a significant financial strain for many local organizations, and this grant program aims to alleviate that cost,” Russell said. “This is an excellent opportunity to provide lifesaving equipment to communities across the state and I urge every eligible department to apply.”
Awards are administered by the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office. Grantees are able to purchase equipment for incident response and to protect the lives of rescue squad members.
In order to apply, the organization must have an active registration with the Tennessee Secretary of State and provide a letter stating they are recognized by the local government to provide rescue squad services.
Once submitted, applications are scored internally and given to a seven-member committee who oversees the award selection. The committee is composed of six members from the Tennessee Rescue Squad Association, and the TDCI’s Assistant Commissioner of Fire Prevention.
Applicants can find all required information for the Rescue Squad Grant Program on the Tennessee Fire Marshal’s website. For convenience, applications and resources are also linked below.
Rescue Squad Grant Program 2025 Application | Step-by-Step Guide for Registration | W-9 Form
The Fire Marshal’s office will provide grant assistance to applicants through Feb. 14 at 5 p.m. EST.
Awards are expected to be announced on March 28 at 3 p.m. EST.
Applicants with any questions about the grant application should contact Fire Prevention Programs and Policy Director Marybeth Gribble at 615-574-9437 or by email at [email protected] for more information.
Lowell Russell represents District 21 which includes part of Loudon and Monroe Counties.