Staffing for adequate fire and emergency response (SAFER)

Jenkins County Commissioners received a $253,600 Project Grant award from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program (CFDA 97.083) on December 19, 2025. The award, which extends through December 18, 2029, will support firefighter hiring and volunteer firefighter recruitment and retention initiatives within Jenkins County. These core SAFER program activities are designed to help the county meet industry minimum standards and achieve 24-hour staffing capabilities to provide adequate fire protection and emergency response services to the Millen, Georgia community.

The SAFER program, as administered by FEMA, provides direct operational funding to eligible local governments to enhance public safety through expanded firefighting capacity. Jenkins County's award represents one of approximately 140-160 annual SAFER grants distributed nationally, with typical awards ranging from $1.8 million to $16.6 million. This funding complements the county's existing federal emergency response portfolio and demonstrates ongoing institutional commitment to strengthening firefighting and emergency response capabilities.