SFFMA SAFER Grant

Funder: State Firefighters' and Fire Marshals' Association of Texas (SFFMA)

Background: SFFMA was awarded a 2024 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant through the Department of Homeland Security. This is the fourth grant cycle for SFFMA.

Grant Period: December 23, 2025 - December 22, 2029

Total Award: $2,805,000

Geographic Scope: Texas volunteer fire departments

Funding Areas

The grant covers several areas of need faced by volunteer fire departments in Texas:

• Basic firefighter training
• Marketing of the departments in local communities
• Leadership and career development workshops
• Assistance with association membership dues (departments with operational budgets of $50,000 or under)
• Travel costs for some training events

Additional Benefits

Accident and Health Benefit Summary (Coverage Period: February 1, 2026 - December 22, 2029)

• Death Benefit
• Impairment Benefits
• Income Protection Benefits
• First Responders Assistance Program (FRAP) - 24/7 Mental Health & PTSD Support

First Responder Assistance Program (FRAP)

FRAP offers 24/7 confidential assistance for:

• Stress, depression, anxiety
• Family conflict, grief and loss
• Relationship issues
• Financial or legal concerns
• Addictions, problem gambling
• Child or elder care

FRAP Hotline: (855) 207-1747

Contact Information

Mailing Address: PO Box 1709, Manchaca, Texas 78652

: 707 W FM 1626, Austin, Texas 78748

Store Hours: 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. or by appointment

Status Note

As of 2/20/26: Due to a partial federal government shutdown, FEMA SAFER reimbursements are experiencing delays in processing and funding.

Texas volunteer fire departments with an operational budget of $75,000 or less (membership dues assistance: $50,000 or under). PPE and physicals require a pre-approval form.

Application Process

Detailed step-by-step application instructions were not provided in the available content. However, the following materials are available for download:

Required Forms & Documents:

1. Administrative Guide for Departments - NEW version available
2. Training Reimbursement Form
3. Advanced Training Reimbursement Form
4. General Information Handout
5. Provident Benefit Flyer
6. FRAP Brochure
7. Membership Dues Request Form - Note: To qualify for membership dues reimbursement, your department's operational budget must be $50,000 or under

Submission Process:

Approved departments expend the funds, then submit copies of receipts to receive reimbursement up to the limit of the program.

Contact for Application Details:

• Phone: 512-454-3473
• Email: info@sffma.org
• Mailing Address: PO Box 1709, Manchaca, Texas 78652