Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU) is continuing its commitment to support local first responders and keep communities safe. MGU is offering grants of up to $2,000 through its Rewarding Responders Grant program to help police, fire and emergency medical services agencies improve public safety.
Emergency response agencies can apply for a grant through June 15.
Helping everyday heroes enhance public safety
MGU’s Rewarding Responders Grant helps public safety agencies in southern and western Michigan receive lifesaving equipment or training. Last year, these grants helped first responders receive important safety tools such as thermal imaging cameras, hazardous gas detectors and automated external defibrillators (AEDs).
Since the program began in 2015, MGU has awarded more than $85,000 to help dozens of emergency response agencies strengthen public safety in their communities.
The Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety received a Rewarding Responders Grant in 2024 to purchase new thermal imaging cameras, which allow firefighters to better search for people in a fire or identify where a fire has spread.
“We were extremely grateful to receive this grant. Without it, we would not have been able to obtain these important devices,” said Brian Kazmierzak, deputy director of fire services — Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety. “We rely on community partnerships to help us complete important projects like acquiring our thermal imaging cameras. We truly appreciate the support from Michigan Gas Utilities.”
Applying for a grant
Emergency response agencies are eligible to receive a grant if they:
- Operate in the MGU service area.
- Did not receive a grant in 2024.
- 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 can be put toward unique, safety-related projects that are one-time efforts.
Grants of up to $2,000 are available to eligible departments.