The Cascade Township Fire Department has been awarded $117,000 in FEMA grants to improve firefighters' mental and physical health.
The fire department was chosen for the FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program because its health initiatives met all of FEMA's health and safety priorities. In Michigan, 46 other fire departments received this grant. Along with the $117,000 from FEMA, nearly $6,000 has been contributed by the township, bringing the grant total to $122,971.
The funding will be used for regular health exams, high-quality gym equipment to replace outdated equipment, wellness evaluations measuring strength and overall health and more. Mental health assessments are also provided in the wellness plan.