Local Fire Departments Receive Elks Grants

The Glasgow Elks awarded Valley County Long Run Fire Department and Hinsdale Volunteer Fire Department with grants as part of the Montana State Elks Association State Major Project. This year’s funding, which amounted to $200,000, went to volunteer rural fire departments throughout the state in four districts, North, South, East and West.

Grant applications describing the need for equipment and/or training were due to local Elks lodges Dec. 15, 2019. Funding decisions were made by the State Association on Jan. 31, and distributed accordingly.

The Glasgow Elks Lodge 1922 sponsored two winning submissions in the East area, Long Run and Hinsdale, who received their grants on March 3. Long Run Chief Sara Johnson Bryan was on hand to receive her department’s $1,420 grant and Hinsdale Chief Tyler Hillman received a $2,000 grant on behalf of his department to purchase new personal protective equipment, including footwear and wildlands gear.

Valley County Long Run Fire Department put their grant money towards the purchase of new self-contained breathing apparatus face mask shields. Bryan told the Courier the masks will be a new addition to the department. While Long Run had some masks, there were not enough for every volunteer. “The new masks will allow every firefighter to have one when responding to structure fires, motor vehicle fires, equipment fires, dumpster fires, gas leaks etc.,” she said. “These masks are a vital piece of personal protective equipment. By having every firefighter outfitted with these masks it will significantly increase the safety of our members and allow us to provide exceptional service to Valley County.”

Bryan added, “Firefighting continues to be among the most hazardous jobs. The smoke contains ultra-fine particles which is one of the leading causes of cancer in firefighters. The masks will allow us to to avoid breathing those harmful particulates.” Long Run purchased five masks for $1,550, just $130 more than provided by the grant.

Grants will again be available for 2021 and departments will need to have their grant applications turned in to the Glasgow Elks in December of this year. More information will be available closer to the deadline.

The Glasgow Elks Lodge 1922 expressed their gratitude to the brave men and women who give selflessly, saying, “Thank you to all our local volunteer firefighters for protecting our communities!”

The Elks extend an invitation to any and all community members who are interested in supporting the Elks, including grants like the above, or joining the organization to contact any current member or pick up an application during business hours at the Elks Lodge. Interested parties are also invited to the annual Open House and Membership Drive, Friday, April 3, at 5:30 p.m. Free food and drink specials will be available and members will be available to answer questions.