Governor Hochul announces first round of payments under New York’s $10 million Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend Program

ALBANY, NY- Governor Kathy Hochul announced Friday that New York’s new $10 million Volunteer Firefighter Training Stipend program has paid out its first $140,250 to a total of 105 students from more than 50 fire departments statewide.

Initially included as part of the FY24 Enacted Budget, the program seeks to strengthen the volunteer fire service by offsetting the costs of required trainings, making it easier for new recruits to join volunteer fire departments and help protect their communities.

“Volunteer firefighters put their lives on the line each day out of a selfless dedication to serving and protecting our communities,” Governor Hochul said.

“These investments affirm our commitment to their service, and to the vital role they play in keeping New Yorkers safe.”

According to Hochul’s Office, approximately nine million New Yorkers, nearly half of the state’s population, are served by volunteer firefighters.

Yet in recent years, more than 75 percent of these departments have reported a decrease in the number of individuals willing to volunteer and serve, Hochul officials claim.

This is further compounded by the increased operational responsibilities beyond fire protection to include vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, hazardous material spills, and weather-related rescue operations.

At the same time, calls for service have increased 29 percent from 1997 to 2020.

Additional information on the program can be accessed here.

Image via the office of New York Governor Kathy Hochul.