Igniting Hope: PG&E and California Fire Foundation Fuel Wildfire Safety with $1.5 Million in Grants

In a powerful demonstration of commitment to community safety, the PG&E Corporation Foundation and the California Fire Foundation have united once again to launch a critical initiative: the distribution of $1.5 million in wildfire safety grants. This vital funding is set to bolster the defenses of 150 local fire departments and community organizations across PG&E's vast service territory, equipping them to better prepare for and respond to the escalating threat of wildfires in California.

With California facing increasingly severe and frequent wildfire seasons, proactive measures are not just beneficial—they are essential.

Each of the 150 selected organizations will receive a substantial $10,000 grant, a targeted investment designed to directly enhance local safety infrastructure and readiness. These grants aren't merely financial aid; they are a lifeline, empowering the front lines of defense in communities most vulnerable to wildfire devastation.

The impact of these grants is far-reaching.

Funds will be channeled into crucial areas such as the acquisition of essential firefighting equipment, the provision of specialized training for emergency responders, and the implementation of robust vegetation management programs. Beyond direct suppression efforts, a significant portion will support educational initiatives focused on defensible space, emergency preparedness, and vital community outreach.

By fostering a culture of readiness and providing the necessary resources, these grants aim to build resilient communities capable of mitigating wildfire risks and protecting lives and property.

"The PG&E Corporation Foundation is proud to partner with the California Fire Foundation to help ensure communities across our service area are prepared for wildfire season," stated Carla Peterman, Chair of the PG&E Corporation Foundation.

"Through these grants, we're empowering local heroes with the tools and training they need to keep their communities safe. This investment is a testament to our enduring commitment to public safety and strengthening California’s resilience against the growing threat of wildfires."

Echoing this sentiment, Rick Martinez, Executive Director of the California Fire Foundation, emphasized the collaborative spirit.

"Working hand-in-hand with the PG&E Corporation Foundation allows us to amplify our collective impact. These grants provide critical resources that directly translate into enhanced preparedness and response capabilities at the local level. It's about empowering communities to take control of their safety, fostering a proactive approach that saves lives and homes."

This year's grants build upon a strong foundation of previous investments.

Since 2017, the PG&E Corporation Foundation has contributed over $6.5 million towards wildfire safety and preparedness through programs like this, underscoring a consistent and unwavering dedication to safeguarding California. The grants complement PG&E's broader Community Wildfire Safety Program (CWSP), which includes advanced weather monitoring, enhanced vegetation management, grid hardening, and its Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) program, all designed to reduce wildfire risks.

As California continues to adapt to a changing climate, collaborative efforts like this partnership between the PG&E Corporation Foundation and the California Fire Foundation are more important than ever.

By investing directly in local capabilities and fostering a shared sense of responsibility, they are not just funding safety—they are igniting hope and building a more secure future for communities across the Golden State.