Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU) is helping everyday heroes keep their communities safe. The company is awarding $10,000 to help Michigan public safety agencies purchase lifesaving equipment. The funding is part of MGU’s Rewarding Responders Grant program.
“We are proud to support the brave individuals who work tirelessly to create a brighter future for our communities,” said Mike Baker, vice president — MGU. “Our first responders race toward danger and distress, putting others’ safety ahead of their own lives every day. We’re honored to help provide these vital tools to keep everyone safe.”
Donations that make an invaluable impact
Since 2015, MGU has donated more than $65,000 through its Rewarding Responders Grant program. The grants have helped police, fire and emergency medical services (EMS) departments improve public safety in communities across southern Michigan.
This year’s recipients include the Saugatuck Township Fire District, which received a new multigas detector through the grant.
“The Fire District would like to thank MGU for this generous grant award,” said Chris Mantels, deputy fire chief — Saugatuck Township Fire District. “This detector will assist us in responding quickly to emergencies involving gas odors, leaks or carbon monoxide alarms. We greatly appreciate the relationship we have with MGU in emergency response, and now providing us funding for the tools we need to do our job more effectively.”
The Coldwater Fire Department also is among this year’s grant recipients. The department received new clip-on carbon monoxide detectors through the grant.
“Many times, our fire department’s administrative staff have to make choices on what equipment to purchase, and items that would help our firefighters may be left out,” said Dave Schmaltz, fire chief — Coldwater Fire Department. “This grant and the continued support from MGU helps to bridge that gap, allowing us to provide a little bit extra in public safety.”
Improving safety with important tools
The 2022 grant recipients include:
- Allegan County Emergency Management — Oil booms for hazardous material spills
- Allegan County Search and Rescue — Thermal imaging camera
- Bedford Township Fire Department — Protective firefighting hoods
- Coldwater Fire Department — Clip-on carbon monoxide monitors
- London Maybee Raisinville Fire Department — Multigas detector
- Saugatuck Township Fire District — Multigas detector
MGU offers its Rewarding Responders Grant annually to enhance public safety. Each eligible emergency response agency can apply for up to $2,000 in funding. Agencies may receive a grant if they:
- Operate in the MGU service area.
- Complete an online grant application.
- Demonstrate the equipment or training they will acquire is part of a well-planned effort to improve public safety. Grants also may be put toward unique, safety-related projects that are one-time efforts.