Peer Support Program
🏛 OSFM
✓ Free, no account · Source: Illinois GATA Catalog (CSFA) · Last verified Jul 1, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for firefighter peer support and mental health programs in Illinois. Organizations must be fire departments or fire prevention agencies able to administer peer support initiatives. The program supports activities that address firefighter mental health, resilience, and peer support services. Awards are limited to $75,000 per recipient.
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Program description
Provides funding for the purpose of addressing firefighter mental health initiatives. Fire Prevention Fund Administered by the OSFM via the Illinois GATA Catalog of State Financial Assistance (CSFA 592-00-3767).
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- OSFM application form
- Project narrative describing peer support activities
- Budget and budget narrative
- Evidence of organizational capacity
- Mental health assessment or needs statement
Program contact
- 👤 Ronny Wickenhauser
- 📧 Ronny.J.Wickenhauser@illinois.gov
- 📞 217-558-0577
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Fire departments and fire prevention agencies in Illinois can apply. Organizations must demonstrate capacity to implement firefighter peer support programs.
What is the funding amount?
This grant provides $75,000 in funding. Cost sharing is not required.
What activities does this grant support?
Funding supports firefighter mental health initiatives and peer support programs. Examples include training, counseling resources, and mental health awareness activities.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is July 31, 2026. Applicants should submit materials well before this date.
How competitive is this grant?
Competition depends on the number of eligible applicants in Illinois. A strong proposal should clearly connect peer support activities to firefighter mental health outcomes.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Focus your proposal on firefighter mental health outcomes. Show how peer support directly addresses depression, PTSD, or suicide prevention in your department.
- Include a realistic budget that demonstrates cost-effectiveness. Reviewers want to see how $75,000 will have maximum impact.
- Document your department's current mental health challenges. Use data about firefighter stress, turnover, or EAP usage to justify the need.
- Partner with mental health professionals or peer support trainers if possible. External expertise strengthens credibility.
- Explain sustainability beyond the grant period. How will peer support continue after funding ends?
⚠️ Common mistakes
Proposals lack concrete mental health metrics or outcomes. Vague budget justifications without itemized costs fail review. Applicants overlook the requirement to address this as a mental health initiative.
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