Black Hills Corporation Foundation, Funds for Firefighters
Funds for Firefighters
Does not pay for armorSD
Fire
What it pays for
Official page confirms program and 2026 totals; cap and deadline from local news.
The rules
Who can apply
Volunteer fire departments serving Black Hills Energy communities. Firefighting equipment and safety gear only; no operating expenses (per local press).
When
Annual spring window; 2026 deadline was April 10, 2026 (local press).
Awards
Up to $2,500 per grant (local press). 2026: $165,000 in 72 grants across seven states.
How to apply
Online application with the department W-9 via blackhillsenergy.com/firefighters during the spring window.
Reports more than 6,677 K9 vests donated since 2009. Partners with Survival Armor.
Who can apply
K9 actively employed in the US by law enforcement or related agencies (no military, search and rescue or private security K9s); certified with current handler; at least 20 months old; no current issued ballistic vest; not retiring within 12 months. Priority: new K9s, then replacement K9s, then replacement of vests over 5 years old. Single purpose narcotics and explosive K9s go on a waiting list.
When
Rolling.
Awards
In-kind custom fitted K9 vest (5 year manufacturer warranty). Also NARCAN kits and first aid kits (up to 4 per agency).
How to apply
The agency (not an individual) completes the online Inquiry Form on the Qualify for a Vest page. Staff review it and contact the applicant within 48 hours to start the formal application.
Faith-based. Equips first responders with all-day rifle-rated armor (Angel Armor, RISE system), plates and helmets. Not a cash grant: community-funded donations. Site reports over 400 agencies in 32 states. Federal Tax ID shown on site.
Who can apply
Typically underfunded police, sheriff, fire and EMS agencies. The department must be ready and able to take an active part in raising the funds for its own armor.
When
Rolling.
How to apply
Agencies start through the Agencies / New Agency Info pages and work with SHIELD616 staff, including a call with the founder. The agency must name a person to raise local funds from churches, businesses and grant sources, with SHIELD616 providing marketing materials.
