The Oconto Volunteer Fire Department is one of six volunteer fire departments in Nebraska who were selected for a $10,000 grant through the State Farm Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program. The Oconto department is among only 150 recipients nationwide for the grant.

The program, in collaboration with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), helps local fire departments purchase needed equipment to enhance responder safety and better protect their communities.

Eighty-two percent of U.S. fire departments are comprised entirely or mostly of volunteer firefighters. Many of these departments operate on limited budgets that leave them struggling to fund equipment that enables them to more effectively and safely do their jobs. Recognizing this need, State Farm and the NVFC teamed up to provide $1.5 million to local fire departments in 2026. Since the program began in 2024, a total of $4 million has been distributed to support volunteer fire departments with their equipment needs.

“Volunteer firefighters are there for their communities no matter what the emergency, from structure and wildland fires to vehicle crashes and medical emergencies to natural disasters and hazardous materials incidents,” said NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch. “Yet many local departments lack the funding to purchase the resources and gear they need, forcing them to rely on outdated or insufficient equipment. We thank State Farm for taking action to address this need by helping local departments secure critical equipment so they can do their jobs more safely and effectively.”

“At State Farm, we are committed to helping people manage everyday risks and building safer, stronger communities,” said Rasheed Merritt, State Farm HR&D Exec-Corporate Responsibility. “We are proud to support volunteer firefighters with equipment needed to enhance safety.”

The announcement of the 2026 recipients was made on Aug. 18, a date many celebrate as Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Day. Grants will be used to purchase a wide variety of department necessities, including personal protective equipment, EMS and rescue tools, communication devices and much more.