The Santa Anna Volunteer Fire Department soon will be able to purchase 10 new sets of personal protective equipment thanks to a $23,136 grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority.
The LCRA Community Development Partnership Program grant, along with $5,781 in matching funds from the Santa Anna VFD, will allow the department to replace outdated and ill-fitting gear and help ensure that all firefighters are properly equipped to safely respond to emergency situations. The department serves cities throughout Coleman County and responds 24/7 to a wide range of emergencies including medical calls, traffic accidents and structure fires.
“It’s not just about new gear, it’s about protecting the people who protect our community,” said Fire Chief David Huggins. “Without this support, we would’ve been forced to rely on outdated equipment, which could have put both our team and the public at risk. Thanks to this grant, we can continue serving our area with the professionalism and preparedness our neighbors deserve.”
The community grant is one of 45 grants awarded recently through LCRA’s Community Development Partnership Program, which helps volunteer fire departments, local governments, emergency responders and nonprofit organizations fund eligible capital improvement projects in LCRA’s wholesale electric, water and transmission service areas. The program is part of LCRA’s effort to give back to the communities it serves.
Applications for the next round of grants will be accepted in July 2025. More information is available at lcra.org/cdpp.