On June 6th, the First Responders Foundation celebrated the 10th year of providing Appreciation Lunches to first responders. Once a year the First Responders Foundation partners with local business’ to provide lunches for first responders in the metro area. This is a small way that the foundation can thank and acknowledge first responders for the dedication and support they show the community 365 days a year.
This year we were proud to partner with Chick-fil-A of Greater Omaha who provided a wrap, bag of chips, and a cookie for law enforcement officers. Over 600 meals were provided. Omaha Steaks provided steak for the firefighters to cook for themselves at the fire stations. Water was provided by Nebraska Furniture Mart who also helped deliver the meals. A donation was made to help with other costs by C&A Industries.
Volunteers helped pack and deliver the meals. There were more volunteers than could be accommodated as people are more than happy to show appreciation to our local first responders and heroes. One volunteer commented how wonderful it was to see the smiles on the first responders faces when the meals are delivered and how thankful they are to be appreciated.
The food was delivered to Omaha Police and Fire Stations, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Douglas County 911 Center. Each year the First Responders Foundation provides more meals than the year before, and expands the reach and the thanks, farther into the community.
School children decorated the lunch bags from Ezra, Standing Bear, Picotte, Joslyn, and Sunny Slope Elementary Schools. The bags were elaborate and heartfelt and were very meaningful to the first responders.
It is a wonderful day for the first responders and the community. We are fortunate in the metro area to have such dedicated men and women who are willing to serve and protect our citizens. It is a great way for the First Responders Foundation to continue the mission to serve and honor all our First Responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work and enhance public safety.