Indianola Fire Department Awarded $20K Prairie Meadows Betterment Grant

The City of Indianola and Indianola Fire Department are thrilled to announce that the department has been awarded a $20,000 Community Betterment Grant from Prairie Meadows. The grant will be used to purchase a personal protective equipment (PPE) turnout gear dryer - a vital piece of equipment that will enhance the safety and well-being of our firefighters.

"We are grateful for the support of Prairie Meadows and their commitment to improving the lives of our dedicated firefighters and the community we serve," said Indianola Fire Chief Greg Chia. "This grant will allow us to upgrade our equipment and provide better protection for our firefighters, who risk their lives every day to keep residents and visitors safe."

According to its website, Prairie Meadows Community Betterment Grants fund small-to-medium sized projects with grants ranging from $100 to $99,999. These grants support qualified organizations seeking to improve the lives of those in their communities.

The department has until Sept. 1, 2025, to utilize the funds.

PPE turnout gear dryers are designed to dry firefighter gear, water rescue suits and hazmat suits, but can also be used for other temperature-sensitive items like scuba gear, jackets, pants and boots. Dryers can be freestanding or wall-mounted, and they're designed to be gentle enough for delicate equipment but sturdy enough to last for decades.

Indianola Fire Captain Eric Wallace authored and submitted the grant application. Chief Chia acknowledged how valuable the Indianola Fire Department's personnel are when it comes to grant writing and its benefit to the entire City.

"Captain Wallace has been one of the most successful writers for the department, and his abilities are not unnoticed or unappreciated," Chief Chia said. "I want to thank you Captain Wallace for the continued efforts he puts into grant applications such as this. His efforts are commendable."

Please join the City of Indianola in congratulating the Indianola Fire Department for receiving this grant award!