Smith County was among several Middle Tennessee communities recognized during a recent ceremony held by the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO). The event celebrated the presentation of more than $1.3 million in grant funds to volunteer fire departments and rescue squads across the region.
Held at the Leslie Town Centre in Cookeville, the ceremony brought together officials, firefighters, and local leaders representing 43 volunteer fire and rescue organizations from across Putnam, Cumberland, Overton, Fentress, Morgan, Scott, Clay, Jackson, Smith, Macon, and Trousdale counties. These grants are part of the state’s ongoing effort to strengthen emergency response capabilities in rural and volunteer-led communities, which often serve as the first line of defense during fires, accidents, and natural disasters.
Smith County’s volunteer fire and rescue teams play a crucial role in protecting residents across both urban and rural areas. The additional funding will help purchase updated safety equipment, improve training opportunities, and support essential maintenance of emergency vehicles and facilities.
Local and state officials emphasized the importance of these grants in sustaining volunteer departments that rely heavily on community support. By investing in these organizations, the state continues its commitment to ensuring that Tennesseans—no matter where they live—have access to timely, effective emergency response services.
