The Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) and Rural Fire Assistance (RFA) and Ready Reserve Program (RRP) provide assistance in training, equipment purchases, and prevention activities, on a cost share basis. The assistance is provided to increase firefighter safety, improve the fire fighting capabilities of rural volunteer fire departments, and enhance protection in the urban-wildland interface.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance program is available from the USDA Forest Service through the State of Alaska, Division of Forestry. The RFA & RRP program is available through agencies of the Department of the Interior. Department of Interior agencies are the National Park Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management.

For all programs only fire departments with a service area of less than 10,000 population and registered with the State Fire Marshall are eligible For consideration departments are required to be current on past RFA, RRP or VFA grants.

The grant application period typically runs from late fall until March 15 annually.

2007 VFA & RFA Grant Awards (PDF)

Guidelines for Volunteer Fire Assistance, Rural Fire Assistance & Ready Reserve Program

VFA, RFA & RRP Application Process (PDF)

Sample VFA RFA Application (PDF)

Assurances

Certifications Regarding Lobbying; Debarment, Suspension and Other Responsibility Matters and Drug-Free Workplace Requirements (PDF)