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Stocking up on essentials can be difficult in these hard economic times.

But the federal stimulus bill could put nearly $3.8 million into the coffers of local law enforcement, allowing officials to buy needed equipment and supplement programs to improve safety in their communities.

"It would help us a great deal," said Madison police Chief Perry Webster, who added that in this economy, "Everybody's feeling the hurt."

His department is eligible to apply for about $16,500, which could help buy a new patrol car or pay for other equipment that the western Rockingham County town won't be able to fund in its budget.

Officials are still unsure how the grant program will work since it has been adjusted to align with the federal economic recovery plan. Agencies have until May 18 to apply for the grant money. The grants are one-time awards that must be spent within four years.

Several local law enforcement officials said they likely will use the money for equipment, which is what the grant money has been used for in the past.

The Guilford County Sheriff's Office needs about 300 digital radios, which cost between $2,500 and $5,000 each, Sheriff BJ Barnes said. They would replace analog radios, which are becoming outdated. His agency is slated to receive about $118,000.

Alamance County might use its share - about $67,000 - for its sheriff's office to install mobile data monitors in patrol cars, said Sheriff Terry Johnson.

He said only a few of the department's 40 vehicles have the monitors, which allow deputies quick access to information such as license checks.

Greensboro police stand to gain about $1.2 million.

The department has used the money in the past to buy radar and special cameras for its forensics unit, said Assistant Chief Anita Holder. The agency doesn't know yet how it will use the money.

"We really are still looking to see which equipment would get us the most bang for the buck," she said.

It's unclear how the money will be doled out. In the past, the money arrived in one lump sum, usually in September or October, Holder said.

"I never count anything until I get it in my hands," Johnson said.

Contact Jennifer Fernandez at 373-7064 or jennifer.fernandez@news-record.com