Meet the recipients of the 2024 Volunteer Emergency Services Grant

Volunteer emergency services in Michigan’s Copper Country are now better prepared to help citizens thanks to $53,416.65 in grant awards from Copper Shores Community Health Foundation.

The funding comes from a request for proposals that was released in early 2024 for volunteer emergency services providers, such as fire departments and first responders, located in and serving Baraga, Houghton, Keweenaw or Ontonagon counties. Up to $5,000 was available per grant with a 50 percent match required.

Grant Recipients

L’Anse Fire Department - Thermal imaging cameras ($3,569)

L’Anse Fire Department will be using the funding to upgrade an outdated thermal imaging camera, as well as purchase a second unit. These cameras will be distributed to their main engine and new tower.

Aura Fire Department - Handheld radios ($4,000)

Handheld radios are a key piece of equipment for firefighters, used in a variety of situations when face-to-face communication is not possible. Because they are used alongside other gear in most responses, they can wear out quickly. Aura Fire Department will be purchasing multiple units with funding from the grant.

Chassell Volunteer Fire and Rescue - Turnout gear, washer and dryer ($5,000)

Chassell Volunteer Fire and Rescue will be using the funding to purchase specialized washer and dryer units for their personal protection equipment. Due to the extreme conditions that turn out gear is subjected to, it is more difficult to wash. Proper washing and drying will not only clean the gear more efficiently, but more importantly improve the longevity of its effectiveness in keeping firefighters safe.

Laurium Fire Department - Personal protective equipment ($2,000)

Laurium Fire Department will be purchasing a variety of equipment with the funding provided by Copper Shores. Filtered breathing respirators will allow the fire fighters to complete overhaul operations without 60 lb. SCBA tanks on their backs. They will also be purchasing safety belts that connect them to their aerial ladders and webbing, multi-functional strap that can be used as a lifeline, and cordless power tools that allow them to gain quick access to structures.

Quincy-Franklin-Hancock Township Fire Department - Personal protective helmets ($5,000)

Under the extreme conditions of fire, even turnout gear will not last forever. Quincy-Franklin-Hancock Township Fire Department will be using the funding to purchase new helmets for the department, something that is required by the National Fire Protection Act of 1851 to be replaced every 10 years. Helmets not only keep firefighters safe from heat, but also protect them from the elements in a variety of other rescue operations.

Ripley Volunteer Fire Department - SCBA tank upgrade, personal protective equipment ($5,000)

As more people join the call to keep communities safe, more turnout gear is needed. Ripley Volunteer Fire Department will be using funds to purchase two sets of turnout gear and new SCBA tanks. Every firefighter in a department carries their own clean air into a fire, making the tanks a vital part of operations.

Stanton Township Volunteer Fire Department, Precinct 1 - Equipment storage ($2,673.95)

Stanton Township Volunteer Fire Department will be using the funding to purchase organizational equipment. After a fire, gear needs to be washed and dried out before being put back for the next emergency. The drying racks and organizational equipment will allow the department to speed up drying times, increasing the longevity of the equipment, and allowing them to respond to emergencies faster.

Toivola Volunteer Fire Department, Stanton Township Precinct 2 - Replacement SCBA Bottles ($5,000)

SCBA tanks carry clean and compressed air that firefighters use while on the job, something they cannot safely enter a smoke-filled environment without. Toivola Volunteer Fire Department will be using the funding to replace some of their SCBA units.

Ahmeek Village Volunteer Fire & Rescue Department - Personal protective equipment ($2,000)

The Ahmeek Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department is growing in numbers and needs new gear. One new firefighter is currently using out-of-date equipment that does not fit properly or meet safety standards. Though this donated equipment has served the department well, it is time for a well-deserved and necessary upgrade.

Allouez Township Vol. Fire Department - Generator and lighting ($5,000)

Allouez Township Volunteer Fire Department will use funds to purchase a generator and lights for helmets. A generator will ensure that equipment that holds water is properly stored without freezing, as well as serve as a warm location for the community in the case of an emergency outage. They will also be replacing the headlamps on their helmets, something they use to see passed smoke and debris.

Keweenaw County Search & Rescue - Rescue e-bike ($4,173.70)

Funding from the grant will go towards the purchase of a QuietKat bike, an electric bike that will allow Keweenaw Search & Rescue first responders to get onto non-motorized trails. With endless miles of trails and an increase in outdoor tourism, the need for trail safety equipment is increasing. The bike will help first responders locate individuals faster, begin first aid sooner and extract people as smoothly as possible.

Sherman Township Fire & Rescue - Fire suppression equipment ($5,000)

Sherman Township Fire and Rescue will be using the funds to purchase new SCBA tanks, a piece of equipment that all firefighters need when entering a smoke-filled structure. When properly taken care of, SCBA tanks will last for about 15 years before needing to be replaced.

McMillan Township Fire Department - SCBA units ($5,000)

McMillan Township Fire Department will be purchasing two new SCBA units. The township is located in Ontonagon County and has a population of less than 500 people, however, the department regularly assists with other emergencies in Ontonagon County, covering over 500 square miles. These tanks will allow firefighters to safely complete their work.

Learn more about granting opportunities at Copper Shores Community Health Foundation by visiting coppershores.org/grants.