The province has announced a significant increase in funding for first responders to enhance their preparedness for emergencies. This initiative aims to better equip emergency response organizations with necessary resources, reflecting the vital role they play in ensuring the safety of Nova Scotians.
Under the updated Emergency Services Provider Fund, first responder organizations can apply for financial support of up to $30,000, an increase of $10,000 from the previous year. This change, announced on a Friday, highlights the government's commitment to improve emergency response capabilities in the region.
Emergency Management Minister Kim Masland emphasized the importance of first responders, stating, "First responders play such a crucial role in keeping Nova Scotians safe." The provincial government is increasing the total funding for this program to $4 million in the current year, a notable rise from last year's allocation of $2.8 million.
In addition to the increase in individual funding limits, the revamped program introduces a new regional component designed to support collaborative projects and shared equipment among organizations. The funding program will now cover up to 90 percent of costs for eligible purchases, up from the previous coverage of 75 percent.
Applications for the individual funding stream opened on Thursday, with a deadline set for July 30. Additionally, the regional funding stream is scheduled to open on September 1, offering up to $200,000 for broader initiatives, and will close on October 14.
Eligible purchases for individual organizations include a range of essential equipment, such as:
- Personal protective equipment and self-contained breathing apparatus
- Firefighting, communication, rescue, and water suppression tools
- Emergency power systems
- Hazardous materials response equipment
For the new regional stream, eligible initiatives encompass:
- Major equipment and specialized vehicles or trailers
- Regional training facilities and shared equipment pools
- Mobile command units and multi-purpose terrain vehicles
- Public education projects, training programs, and mental health resiliency supports
- Regional FireSmart program enhancements
In a further positive development, organizations can now apply for funding every two years, reducing the previous interval of three years. This change is expected to provide first responders with more timely access to the financial resources they need to carry out their duties effectively.
Overall, the province’s investment of $4 million into the Emergency Services Provider Fund underscores its commitment to equipping and supporting first responders. With improved funding limits and the introduction of a regional funding component, this initiative represents a substantial advancement in the preparation and capability of emergency response teams across the province.
For more information and to access the application process, interested parties can visit the official website provided by the province.
