Congressman Eric Sorensen Announces Fire Prevention Grant for City of Kewanee

KEWANEE, IL - Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) is proud to announce the City of Kewanee has received $166,666 through FEMA's Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grant program.

The funding will support fire prevention and safety initiatives, helping reduce fire-related risks and improve community awareness and preparedness.

"Fire prevention saves lives before emergencies happen," said Congressman Sorensen. "This grant will help Kewanee invest in proactive safety efforts that protect our neighbors and first responders."

"Through the use of these grant funds, the Kewanee Fire Department will be able to initiate a Community Risk Reduction Plan aimed at all businesses and public access buildings in the city of Kewanee. We will now be able to fortify the fire prevention aspects of public safety that would have otherwise been financially unattainable." Kewanee Fire Chief, Stephen Welgat said.

The Kewanee Fire Department was also the recipient of a FY24 FEMA AFG (Assistance to Firefighters Grant) award in the amount of $203,561.66. Those funds helped purchase 3 new automatic external defibrillators (AED's). Those AED's have already arrived and are currently in service.

FEMA completed awarding FY24 fire grants in September 2025, with recipients now posted publicly on the agency's website. These programs provide critical support to fire departments and communities across the country.