News

N.C. fire marshal invites first responders to apply for disaster aid

By Lightning Reports, Published: July 24, 2025

The Office of State Fire Marshal is now accepting applications for the second round of Disaster Recovery Grants for fire departments and rescue squads impacted by Hurricane Helene. Deadline to apply is midnight on Aug. 2 with grant awards and disbursements beginning on Aug. 15.

The additional $18 million in funding was authorized by the General Assembly to further support storm recovery and strengthen wildfire preparedness across Western North Carolina.

Eligible departments and squads may receive a flat $50,000 grant award to help replace damaged equipment or facilities or enhance wildfire response capacity. Henderson County is one of the counties eligible to apply. Grants can be used to repair or replace equipment or facilities damaged by Hurricane Helene or to enhance wildfire preparedness and response.

Departments that received funding from FEMA, insurance or other sources for the same expenses must notify OSFM and may be subject to reimbursement requirements.

How to apply:

• Round 1 applicants do not need to reapply unless contacted by OSFM.
• Rescue squads and departments that did not apply in Round 1 must submit a new application and required documentation.
• Applications must include a notarized attestation form signed by the department’s governing authority (e.g., mayor, board president, town manager).