The fire company relief association is a way for Volunteer Fire Departments to receive public tax dollars from the state for certain essential fire departments equipment. Examples of equipment this funding supplies is Air packs, hoods, bunker gear, helmets, rescue equipment and other items that are designed for protection and safety of fire and rescue personnel. These items often would be neglected due to lack of general funds that would need to be spent on fire suppression and apparatus. With out the relief association many fire departments in the state would not have the resources to purchase these invaluable items or have enough money to stay as a volunteer status. If a department could no longer remain volunteer, one department could cost townships millions of dollars annually to provide fire and EMS service. Although the relief association is a vital part of funding for qualifying volunteer fire companies, local funding is vital.

There are certain requirements a Volunteer Fire Department must abide by in order to receive relief association funds. The financial leaders must meet once a month to discuss relief association funds and purchases. All purchases using relief funds must be documented and submitted to the state. All uses of the funds are evaluated and verified that the purchase is within the rules of the association.

The state determines how much each township receives in relief funds. The townships then divide the funds amongst the fire departments that provide service in their township.