Funding To Replace Outdated Radio Systems Will Improve Emergency Response, Communication and Firefighter Safety; New Funding Builds on Governor's Efforts To Support Volunteer Firefighters and Modernize Fire Departments Across New York State
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $1 million in state funding for the Village of Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department in Nassau County to purchase new radio equipment. The investment will allow the department to replace outdated radios that have limited functionality inside burning buildings, improving emergency communication among first responders operating in dangerous conditions.
“We owe it to our brave volunteer firefighters to make sure they have the equipment they need to do their jobs safely,” Governor Hochul said. “For nearly 200 years, the Village of Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department has answered the call to protect their neighbors and save lives. This $1 million investment will help ensure these brave first responders have the reliable equipment they need to respond to emergencies.”
The funding builds on Governor Hochul's ongoing investments in volunteer fire departments across New York State. In September 2026, the Governor announced $25 million in funding for 65 volunteer fire departments and districts through the Volunteer Fire Infrastructure & Response Equipment (V-FIRE) Grant Program, administered by the State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services.
Combined with $25 million awarded to 88 departments in 2024, the State has awarded $50 million to 153 volunteer fire departments and districts through the V-FIRE program to improve facilities, purchase critical safety equipment and strengthen emergency response capabilities. An additional $25 million was secured in the FY 2027 Enacted Budget for a third round of funding.
Approximately 9 million New Yorkers rely on volunteer firefighters for fire protection and emergency response services. Governor Hochul has continued to support these first responders through investments in equipment, facilities and training to help departments meet the growing demands of emergency response.
State Senator Siela Bynoe said, “Our volunteer firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities safe, and they need reliable equipment to serve effectively in the midst of dangerous environments. This $1 million investment will aid the Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department in replacing outdated radios and improve communication where it matters most. I’m glad to see this funding going toward the safety of our first responders.”
Assemblymember Noah Burroughs said, “The Village of Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department are pleased and grateful to receive $1 million through the support of Governor Kathy Hochul. This funding represents an important investment in our local fire department and its ability to continue serving and protecting our community. We appreciate the commitment to supporting our first responders and ensuring they have the resources needed to carry out their vital work.”
Village of Hempstead Mayor Waylyn Hobbs Jr. said, “I want to express my appreciation to Governor Kathy Hochul for her continued commitment to the safety and well-being of the residents of the Village of Hempstead. This $1 million investment in new radio equipment for the Hempstead Volunteer Fire Department is more than just funding. This is an investment in saving lives. When our brave volunteer firefighters enter burning buildings and put their lives on the line to protect others, clear and reliable communication is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Public safety remains a top priority of my administration, and we are grateful to Governor Hochul for being a strong partner in keeping Hempstead safe.”
Nassau County Legislator Scott Davis said, “Supporting Nassau County’s firefighters and first responders is one of my highest priorities. These men and women stand ready every day, demonstrating exceptional courage and professionalism as they answer every call without hesitation. It is imperative that they have modern, reliable resources to perform their jobs safely. These long-awaited radio upgrades are a true game changer. They represent a significant advancement in public safety, ensuring that firefighters have the communication tools they need to help protect themselves and the residents they serve. As a proud Hempstead native, I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to the Village of Hempstead Fire Department, area residents, and her continued support of Nassau County’s first responders.”
Nassau County Legislator Viviana L. Russell said, “Every time they answer a call, our volunteer firefighters rush toward danger in the spirit of selfless community service, and we as their partners in government have a solemn duty to ensure they are equipped to accomplish their mission as safely as possible. This million-dollar grant represents a transformational investment in the men and women who serve proudly in the Hempstead Fire Department, and it underscores Governor Hochul's unwavering commitment to initiatives that keep our communities safe.”
Nassau County Legislator Olena Nicks said, “I want to thank Governor Hochul for her investment in the Hempstead Fire Department. As we say in the fire service, communication is key. These new radios will help our firefighters stay connected and coordinated through every call. This not only keeps Hempstead safe, but it strengthens operations during mutual aid, which our neighboring communities rely on.”