2 Ill. fire agencies share $849K federal grant

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Fire departments in Streamwood and Taylorville will receive federal grants totaling $849,000.

Officials said Thursday the money is provided through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's "Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response" program.

Streamwood will receive about $628,000 for hiring initiatives. Taylorville will get $221,000 for the same purpose.

The program helps firefighting agencies maintain 24-hour staffing and ensures that communities have adequate protection from fires and related hazards.

This year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency — part of Homeland Security — will award $320 million to fire departments and volunteer support groups.