Four of Winona Lake Firefighters pose with the new equipment purchased through State Farm Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program. From left are Lt. Blaine King, Firefighters Marco Castro and Cole Trombley and Lt. Ricardo Prater.

Text and Photos
By Mike Cox
Winona Lake Volunteer Fire Department Public Information Officer

WINONA LAKE — As we have moved into 2025, the Winona Lake Volunteer Firefighters are excited to announce that it is one of 100 volunteer fire departments across the nation to receive a $10,000 grant through the State Farm Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program. In collaboration with the National Volunteer Fire Council, State Farm has awarded $1 million in grants to help local fire departments obtain needed equipment to increase their responders’ safety, effectiveness and ability to serve their community.

With this grant, the Winona Lake Volunteer Firefighters will be able to purchase new helmets, protective hoods, gloves and boots to help protect our firefighters. These vital items of protective gear are the most used and most damaged during emergency operations and most often in need of replacement.

As the largest emergency response unit of the town of Winona Lake, the Winona Lake Volunteer Firefighters are committed to providing protection and intervention to the citizens of Winona Lake and surrounding areas in the event of fire, weather-related events and other emergency situations, as well as assisting other town agencies during the many sponsored events in and around Winona Lake. As an all-volunteer department, this dedicated group of men and women respond to an average of 200 calls per year, in addition to providing thousands of hours each year in training and in maintaining equipment

New gear purchased through State Farm Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program grant.

“Our firefighters work hard to protect our community — helping their neighbors on their worst day. It is critical that we are able to provide these dedicated volunteers with the tools and resources they need to do their job safely and effectively,” said Chief Kevin Gelbaugh. “Thanks to this donation from State Farm and the National Volunteer Fire Council, we will be better equipped and prepared so we can respond at our best.”

This is the inaugural year of the State Farm Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program. Volunteer fire departments play a critical role in protecting communities across the country, especially small towns and rural areas. However, they often operate on tight budgets and struggle to find the funding for needed equipment. In collaboration with the NVFC, State Farm aimed to award 50 grants to local fire departments. However, the overwhelming response prompted State Farm to double its commitment to 100 grants, benefiting even more local departments and communities.

State Farm also provided all applicants with a membership to the NVFC — the leading association representing the volunteer fire, EMS and rescue services — so they have access to additional tools, resources, and training to help them thrive.

Learn more about the State Farm Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program at nvfc.org/statefarm.