Key points at a glance
- WPS Foundation accepting applications for lifesaving grant program.
- Program assisted Suamico Fire Department during April flood rescue efforts.
- Nearly $700,000 in grants awarded since 2014.
The Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) Foundation is building on its support for local first responders working to keep communities safe. The foundation is providing $75,000 to help police, fire and emergency medical services (EMS) agencies improve public safety through the Rewarding Responders Grant program.
Emergency response agencies can apply for a grant through June 15.
Rewarding efforts to enhance safety in local communities
The WPS Foundation’s Rewarding Responders Grant helps northeast and north-central Wisconsin first responders acquire lifesaving equipment or training. The program helps departments meet vital equipment needs — from protective clothing and handheld lights to heavy-duty rescue tools — that increase safety for everyone in their communities.
Since the program began, the WPS Foundation has awarded nearly $700,000 to help more than 220 individual agencies strengthen public safety.
The Suamico Fire Department is among the recent recipients. The department used a 2025 grant to purchase a new water rescue basket. The rescue basket was used by firefighters for rescue efforts during April’s severe flooding in the village.
“Our mission includes a commitment to our community, and this grant gave us a tool to strengthen that commitment,” said Joe Bertler, fire chief — Suamico Fire Department. “We trained with our water rescue basket frequently during the last year. It’s been an important tool to build our department’s knowledge and skill sets for efficient water rescue operations when emergencies have happened.”
How to apply for a grant
Emergency response agencies can apply for a 2026 grant on the WPS Foundation’s website.
Public safety agencies are eligible for a grant if they:
- Operate in the WPS electric or natural gas service area.
- Did not receive a grant in 2025.
- Complete the online grant application.
- Demonstrate the equipment or training they will acquire is part of a well-designed effort to improve public safety. Grants also can be used for unique safety-related projects that are one-time efforts.
Grants of up to $2,000 are available to eligible departments.