The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Grant Program and related homeland security grants managed by other federal departments and agencies are critical to state and local public safety agencies across the nation. State and local agencies use grant funds to purchase terrorism prevention and emergency response equipment, pay training and exercise costs, fund planning activities, and for limited personnel costs. After the initial tide of money was pushed out to state and locals in 2003, the grant application and implementation process has become increasingly complex and time consuming for busy emergency planners and managers. This article briefly examines the history of the contemporary Homeland Security Grant Program as managed by DHS and highlights the increased importance of strong grant-writing. The authors then provide practical insight and strategies for those in emergency management who find themselves responsible for overseeing or participating in a homeland security grant application.
This article appeared in the July/August 2008 issue of the Journal of Emergency Management.
This collection of published articles, research, and analysis by CHHS staff covers a myriad of issues and topics relevant to the work of emergency managers, first responders, and public health professionals across the country.
