This has been an inspirational week at the First Responders Foundation. There have been countless calls and emails from concerned citizens asking, how can I help?
- How can I help support the police and first responders in the metro area?
- Can I show support and appreciation for all they are doing to protect our rights and for the safety of our community?
How Can I Help & Support Police/First Responders?
To answer the question, how can I help, a simple note was put out on our social media sites announcing the collection of items for first responders. Immediately the outpouring of supplies began to roll in.
The Foundation has been a collecting point for 1000’s of cases of water and sports beverages, protein bars and beef jerky, hundreds of different snack items, sunscreen, lip balm, and more! Along with these very necessary items have been cards and well wishes from all ages thanking first responders and letting them know they care. The donations have come from citizens in the metro area, some with a bag full and some with a car full. Parents have come with children who have drawn pictures for first responders. Donations have come from workgroups and friend groups, from churches, and from large and small companies all wanting to show support for the police and other first responders.
Donation To Support Police & All First Responders
The donations have been overwhelming and the impact on our local first responders has been immense. Leadership from departments from all over the metro have responded with thanks and have commented that the donations have been heartfelt and have increased morale. The collaboration between departments over the last few weeks has been impressive. Supplies have been delivered to agencies in Douglas, Sarpy, Cass, and Pottawattamie Counties.
At this time we are shifting our focus from drinks and snacks to collecting gift cards and thank you notes that will be given to first responders. The gift cards can be as little as $5 and up. The public is encouraged to mail these items to our location at 10605 Burt Circle, Omaha, NE 68114. If you would prefer to drop the cards and notes off please call 402-218-1234 to make arrangements. Our local first responders will very much appreciate your generosity.
Behavioral Health Services
Way beyond supplies currently needed, the First Responders Foundation is here for first responders in significant ways. Our most crucial program is the First Responders Support Team (FRST) that offers behavioral health services for first responders and their families. The need for these services has increased with the COVID19 pandemic and the protests and riots. An even greater need is anticipated when things get “back to normal” as first responders are trained to be focused when situations are intense. Support groups are offered for paid and volunteer first responders, both in person and via video conferencing. Services are also offered to frontline medical personnel.
First Responders Foundation
The Foundation also supports K-9 Units, Mounted Patrol, and Alley the Arson Dog. Our JAVELAN program as service dogs for our nation’s heroes, including retired first responders. Our Home Safety program, in partnership with the Omaha Fire Department, offers free carbon monoxide/smoke detectors and battery replacement to the elderly and others in need in our community.
Financial contributions to the Foundation are always needed and appreciated to continue the vital programming for our first responders who put their lives on the line for us each and every day. We are here for them. To Donate Now click here.
Mission
The mission of the Foundation is to serve and honor all our First Responders and their families, build appreciation and respect for their work and enhance public safety. Our mission is ongoing and will never be complete, however this week through the support of the community our mission was accomplished.
Sincere thanks to all the businesses and organizations that assisted with donations and collections this week that are far too numerous to mention.
