Cal Water's $1M Firefighter Grant Program Opens for 2025 Applications
Cal Water has launched its seventh annual Firefighter Grant Program to support local fire departments. Since 2019, the company has awarded over $1 million in funding to 27 departments across its service areas. The initiative helps provide essential equipment, training, and education for firefighters.
The program offers grants ranging from $10,800 to $38,400. Past awards have covered critical gear such as ballistic helmets, protective vests, portable radios, and cardiac EKG monitors. More recently, between 2022 and 2025, the funding expanded to include wildland personal protective equipment (PPE), advanced hoses, nozzles, and pump kits.
Training has also been a key focus. Firefighters have received specialized courses in wildland fire behavior and tactical training for high-risk zones. These include Northern California's forests and Southern California's chaparral areas, where wildfire threats are particularly severe.
Applications for the 2025 grant cycle are now open. Fire departments in Cal Water's service areas can submit their requests until 5 p.m. Pacific time on Friday, November 7, 2025. Successful applicants will be notified in late autumn.
The Firefighter Grant Program continues to strengthen emergency response capabilities in vulnerable communities. With over $1 million already distributed, the latest funding round aims to further equip firefighters with tools and training for life-saving operations. Departments have until early November to apply for the 2025 grants.
