N.C. Forest Service - Volunteer Fire Assistance Program

The N.C. Forest Service (NCFS) is pleased to offer the Volunteer Fire Assistance Program this year. This program is for North Carolina fire departments serving a population of less than 10,000 people. This award program will be provided to qualifying departments chosen during the application process for purchasing authorized items for wildland firefighting. The departments that are chosen for this program may receive a maximum of $5,000 in matching funds to purchase selected wildland firefighting supplies. The ability for fire departments to purchase these items will increase the number of properly equipped firefighters in our state and provide for increased firefighter safety as well as more efficient suppression operations.

The N.C. Forest Service appreciates the outstanding service you provide to the citizens of your response area, and the assistance provided to our agency. We are very pleased to be able to offer this program to the fire departments in North Carolina. We look forward to working with you in the future to protect our citizens and natural resources.

The application period for the 2025-2026 Volunteer Fire Assistance Program 50/50 Matching Funds Grant is open. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 5. Notification of awards will be made in mid-January.

APPLY HERE

If you have questions, please contact the grant program via email at NCFS_vfa_grant@ncagr.gov.