Volunteer Firefighters React To State’s Stipend Program To Support Volunteer Fire Service

As of August 31, 2023, volunteer firefighters in New York State could receive stipends for completing specific training courses, as announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. This initiative aims to bolster the state’s volunteer fire service by offering a stipend of over $700 per course, with additional local stipends up to $500 for completing certain training courses approved by the Office of Fire Prevention and Control. Chief Andrew Wilkinson of the Chili Fire Department highlighted the significance of these stipends, noting they can compensate volunteers for the time taken off work to complete the 129-hour training, which spans about four months. The Chili Fire Department, established in 1931 and currently comprising over 100 volunteers across four stations, views these stipends as a strong incentive for recruitment and retention. This financial reward is seen as a way to attract more volunteers to the firefighting field, where approximately 70% of departments nationwide rely on volunteers. Firefighter Anthony Raymond shared his motivation for joining the service, being the community involvement and public service aspects. Both Wilkinson and Raymond believe that the stipends will encourage more individuals to join and remain in the volunteer firefighting ranks.

Source: WHAM