SFFD outlines grant strategies and funding efforts post-COVID in department update

The San Francisco Fire Department (SFFD) presented an overview of its grants and donations efforts during a recent city government meeting. Mark Corso, from the division of finance and planning, along with grant writer Michelle Okejo, highlighted the department's initiatives to secure funding amidst challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Corso noted that the pandemic had delayed many grant-related initiatives, as resources were redirected to operational responses. Despite these setbacks, the department has made significant strides in fundraising, raising over $1.3 million in grants between 2019 and 2020, and approximately $691,415 from 2021 to 2022. The presentation emphasized the importance of building relationships with community, private, and corporate foundations to support the department's funding goals.

Okejo detailed the types of donations received, including cash and in-kind contributions, which were particularly notable during the pandemic when the community rallied to provide essential supplies like PPE and technology. The department has established protocols for acknowledging donations in compliance with the San Francisco sunshine ordinance.

The presentation also addressed the challenges faced in securing funding, particularly due to shifts in donor priorities during the pandemic. Many funders have moved away from competitive grant processes, opting instead to make large donations to community foundations. This has prompted the SFFD to explore partnerships with nonprofit organizations to access funding opportunities that are no longer available to government entities.

Looking ahead, the SFFD has formed a grant committee to prioritize funding needs and enhance its grant application processes. The committee aims to identify critical needs within the department and forecast future funding requirements. Okejo expressed optimism about the potential for collaborative grants, as many funders are now interested in supporting joint initiatives.

Overall, the SFFD's efforts to secure grants and donations reflect a proactive approach to funding challenges, with a focus on community engagement and strategic partnerships to ensure the department's operational needs are met.