A shortage of volunteers has overwhelmed the Pembroke Fire Protection District this year, as 12 people continually fight fires in the area. Fortunately, help is on the way.
On Tuesday, the 12-man department learned it received $346,159 in federal funding through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. It was one of eight Illinois fire departments, including Kankakee, to received federal funding totaling $2.6 million.
Pembroke received two separate grants. A SAFER grant will be used to certify volunteers and add 16 firefighters during the next four years. It also pays for stipends, turnout gear, insurance, health physicals and certificates for higher learning.