News

Application window closes at 3 p.m. EST on Feb. 20

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – State Rep. Lowell Russell, R-Vonore, is encouraging local rescue squads to apply for grant funding through Tennessee’s Rescue Squad Grant Program.

The 114^th General Assembly approved $5 million in the 2025-26 state budget for rescue squads across the state to purchase lifesaving equipment.  

“Our first responders are the backbone of our communities and I’m thrilled that we have been able to alleviate equipment costs through grant programs like this one,” Russell said. “This is an excellent opportunity to provide lifesaving equipment to communities across the state and I urge every eligible department to apply.”

Rescue squads provide a range of specialized services to communities including extrication, structural collapse response and swift water rescue.

Awards are administered by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SMFO). Grantees are able to use funds to purchase equipment for incident response and to help protect the lives of rescue squad members.

Eligible rescue squads must have active registration with the Tennessee Secretary of State and submit a letter confirming they are recognized by their local government to provide rescue squad services.

 Applicants can find all required information for the Rescue Squad Grant Program on the SMFO website. For convenience, applications and resources are also linked below.  

Rescue Squad Grant Program 2026 Application | Step-by-Step Guide for Registration | W-9 Form

Awards are expected to be announced on March 27 at 3 p.m. EST.

Applicants with any questions about the grant application should contact Grants Director Loren Haynes at 615-806-3725 during business hours or by email at loren.haynes@tn.gov.

Lowell Russell represents District 21 in the Tennessee House of Representatives which includes part of Loudon and Monroe counties.

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