When disaster strikes, fire departments are among the first to respond — but navigating the complex process of securing FEMA reimbursements and specialty grants can be overwhelming. That’s where Berquist Recovery Consulting (BRC) steps in. BRC specializes in helping fire departments and local agencies get the FEMA funding they deserve while removing the administrative burden from their already strained teams.
Trusted Partnerships for FEMA Funding
After Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton devastated parts of Florida, the Boca Grande Fire Department faced significant challenges. They had performed critical emergency protective measures — from safeguarding public health to protecting critical infrastructure — and had also suffered physical damage to their own facilities.
BRC helped Boca Grande successfully apply for FEMA Category B reimbursements for emergency protective measures, covering essential costs like equipment use and overtime labor. In addition, BRC supported their Category E claims, helping document and secure funding for facility repairs.
Similarly, when storms impacted Long Island, the Lawrence-Cedarhurst Fire Department turned to BRC for assistance. BRC worked closely with Lawrence-Cedarhurst to secure FEMA reimbursements for both emergency response activities and facility damages, ensuring the department could recover vital costs without diverting focus from their mission of protecting the community.
Thanks to BRC’s expertise, both departments were able to recover much-needed funding without having to wade through the confusing and time-consuming FEMA Public Assistance process.
Streamlining Grant Opportunities for Fire Departments
Beyond disaster recovery, BRC also helps FEMA fire departments and local agencies apply for and manage specialty firefighter grants, including programs like:
- Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program
- Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grants
- Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) Grants
- Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) opportunities for resilient facility upgrades
With BRC’s guidance, departments are able to focus on operations and readiness while BRC handles the paperwork, eligibility documentation, and strategic submissions necessary for success.
Taking the Headaches Out of the Process
Applying for FEMA reimbursements or firefighter grants often requires gathering mountains of documentation, meeting strict deadlines, and responding to endless follow-up requests. BRC simplifies the entire process. Their team handles everything from eligibility assessments and grant writing to documentation audits and appeals, ensuring fire departments don’t leave funding on the table.
In times of crisis — and in preparing for the future — FEMA fire departments need partners they can trust. BRC stands shoulder-to-shoulder with these frontline heroes, helping them recover faster, build stronger, and stay focused on protecting their communities.