The Houston Rural Fire Department recently received a $2,107 grant from the Missouri Department of Conservation.
During July and August, matching funds grant checks of up to $4,000 are being presented by MDC forestry division staff to 186 rural fire departments across the state to help purchase personal protective gear and firefighting equipment for structure fire and wildfire suppression efforts. Total funding through this year’s program totals $367,354 and is provided by MDC and the U.S. Forest Service Volunteer Fire Assistance Program.
Over the past 30 years, more than $7.5 million has been doled out via the program.
Houston rural will use the money to purchase turnout gear including boots, pants and helmets.