Michigan Gas Utilities marking milestone in supporting safety with 10th annual Rewarding Responders Grant

Michigan Gas Utilities (MGU) is reaching a milestone in its support of the individuals who keep our communities safe. The company is awarding grants of up to $2,000 to help area police, fire and emergency medical services agencies strengthen public safety. The funding is part of MGU’s Rewarding Responders Grant program.

Emergency response agencies can apply for a grant through June 15.

10th year of Rewarding Responders Grant program

MGU created its Rewarding Responders Grant program in 2015. In the past decade, MGU has awarded more than $75,000 to help emergency response agencies purchase lifesaving equipment or training.

Last year’s grants helped departments across southern and western Michigan purchase important safety tools such as thermal imaging cameras, a multigas detector and scene safety lights. The Ida Township Volunteer Fire Department was among the recipients, using its grant to purchase two thermal imaging cameras.

“Receiving the Rewarding Responders Grant brought the latest technology to our department to improve our service to the residents of Ida and Raisinville townships,” said Carl Arnold, captain — Ida Township Fire Department. “These cameras allow our firefighters to see through smoke to find people in need faster, while also reducing the time firefighters spend in dangerous conditions.”

A man and woman from MGU present two male firefighters with a grant check next to a fire engine.

Two male firefighters stand in front of a fire engine holding a thermal imaging camera.

A man from MGU presents a woman from Berrien County's Public Safety Communication Center with a grant check inside a office area.

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 2023.
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. Learn more about or apply for the grant