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Energy company gives over $135K in grants to FDs in Neb., other states

More than 60 departments across seven states share $135K and Kearney-area agencies receive $30,500 for gear

Kearney Hub

KEARNEY, Neb. — September is National Preparedness Month, and Black Hills Energy is supporting local firefighters with $135,000 in Funds for Firefighters safety grants.

The Funds for Firefighters program provides financial assistance to professional and volunteer fire departments within Black Hills Energy’s service territory to help them purchase essential equipment and supplies that enhance emergency response and public safety.

| MORE: Is a grant writer the answer for your fire department?

More than 60 grants were awarded across 59 communities in Nebraska , Kansas , Colorado , Iowa , South Dakota , Wyoming and Arkansas .

“Safety starts with people — and the courage to serve,” said Kevin Jarosz, vice president of Nebraska and Iowa gas operations. “Our volunteer firefighters embody that spirit every day, and we’re proud to stand beside them.”

A total of $30,500 was distributed in Nebraska and included the following from the Kearney area:

Amherst Volunteer Fire Department, funding for new SCBA packs.

Ansley Fire & Rescue, funding to replace worn grass rig nozzles.

Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department, funding for bunker gear.

Ravenna Fire & Rescue, funding for portable air quality monitors.

Wood River Fire & Rescue, funding for wildland firefighting hose packs.

Proposed new city-county Law Enforcement Center in Kearney

Learn about the Law Enforcement Center proposed for the City of Kearney and Buffalo County.

Looking to navigate the complexities of grants funding? Lexipol is your go-to resource for state-specific, fully developed grants services that can help fund your needs. Find out more about our grants services here.

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Each year, the NFFF carries out a responsibility entrusted to it by Congress: honoring America’s fallen firefighters and standing alongside the families they leave behind. In 2026, that mission is at risk.