PG&E and California Fire Foundation offers agencies grants to prepare for wildfires

CENTRAL COAST, Calif. (KION-TV) -- PG&E has teamed up with the California Fire Foundation (CFF) for the eighth year to award $950,000 in wildfire safety grants to help protect high-risk communities.

Among the recipients are the Bonny Doon Fire Safe Council and the Monterey Fire Department, according to PG&E.

Sixty-three total local fire departments, fire agencies and non-profit groups primarily in Northern and Central California have been awarded, according to PG&E.

A full list of the grantees, including grant amounts, can be found at cafirefoundation.

PG&E says that the grants will be used to purchase personal protective gear, defensible space work, fuel reduction and multilingual public safety outreach.

Funding targets communities identified as extreme or elevated fire risk by the California Public Utilities Commission High Fire-Threat District map.

"This time of year is critical for the California Fire Foundation as we review WSPP grant applications from fire departments, agencies, and nonprofits. Each application reinforces the urgent need for resources to help mitigate wildfire risk," said Brian K. Rice, Chair of the California Fire Foundation. "With drought conditions, warmer temperatures, and drier months ahead, the threat of wildfire remains real. These grants allow us to equip local agencies with funding for vegetation management, fuel reduction, specialized equipment, community outreach, and essential protective gear."

The grant awards come during National Preparedness Month, observed each September to raise awareness of preparing for disasters and emergencies.