The Nextdoor Foundation today announced the 2025 Volunteer Fire Department Fund, which will provide $1,500 grants to 100 volunteer fire departments across the U.S., helping them secure critical equipment and resources to continue their lifesaving work as this year’s fire season begins. All 100 grants have been claimed at this time.

Volunteer firefighters make up 65% of the U.S. fire service, saving communities nearly $47 billion annually, according to the National Volunteer Fire Council. Despite their essential role, most operate on tight budgets and rely heavily on local donations.

“Volunteer fire stations are the backbone of so many communities,” said Kelsey Grady, President of the Nextdoor Foundation. “Their dedication to protecting lives and property is unmatched, and it is an honor to support them financially.”

The number of volunteer firefighters in the U.S. reached a low in 2020. At the same time, call volume has more than tripled in the last 35 years, due in large part to the increase in emergency medical calls. Fire departments today are also expected to provide a wide range of services and multi-hazard response, creating further challenges for resource constrained departments.

“These grants will ease the financial burden on local departments and help them secure resources they need to respond effectively,” said Sarah Lee, CEO of the National Volunteer Fire Council.

“On behalf of our entire department, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Nextdoor Foundation for this grant,” said Fire Chief M. Muth of Adell-Whitt Volunteer Fire Department in Parker County, Texas. “This support is a lifeline for volunteer departments like ours, and every dollar will go directly toward critical equipment and training that ultimately helps us save lives.”

Nextdoor.com – the essential neighborhood network that inspired the creation of the Foundation – will continue working with fire departments through its free public agency platform, which promotes emergency readiness and safety awareness. The company is also investing in new features that deliver real-time emergency alerts to neighbors, especially during wildfires and natural disasters.

The Foundation encourages individuals, businesses, and organizations to join in supporting local volunteer departments, ensuring they remain equipped and ready to serve.

About The Nextdoor Foundation:

The Nextdoor Foundation was founded to uplift and strengthen local communities by supporting people and charitable causes that truly make a difference. Through collaborations with other 501(c)(3) nonprofits, the foundation identifies and supports deserving individuals, small businesses, and neighborhood initiatives.

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