First Responders Children's Foundation Honors Senators and Congressmen for Supporting First Responder Families

First Responders Children's Foundation has honored Senator Jim Justice of West Virginia and Congressman George Latimer of New York with the inaugural United for First Responder Families Award for their support of the children of first responders. The award was presented at a reception held at Florida House on Capitol Hill.

The event, which introduced the Foundation’s national mission, programs, and impact to congressional offices, aimed to highlight the critical role that first responders play in their communities and the need to support their families. Jillian Crane, President and CEO of First Responders Children's Foundation, emphasized the importance of recognizing and supporting the families of first responders, who often carry the emotional burden of their loved ones' service.

Senator Justice, who has been a long-time advocate for first responders and their families, expressed his gratitude for the recognition.

Congressman Latimer echoed similar sentiments, stating, "Every single day, our first responders in New York and across the country answer the call without hesitation, stepping into harm's way to keep our neighborhoods safe. Behind each of these brave men and women are their families who often shoulder the burden of their service. I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the First Responders Children's Foundation, and I remain steadfast in my commitment to fighting for our first responders and the loved ones who stand behind them."

The United for First Responder Families Award is a new annual honor that recognizes public leaders who have shown an ongoing commitment to supporting the children of first responders in their states. Matt McCauley, Turken, Heath & McCauley, and Tom Livingston, CSX, served as the First Responders Children's Foundation Government & Business Relations Advisory Committee Leaders and Event Co-Chairs. The Florida House Reception event sponsorship was provided by CSX, a long-time partner and supporter of the Foundation.

First Responders Children's Foundation is a national nonprofit that provides programs and resources to address the specific needs of first responders and their families. The Foundation focuses on five key areas: Scholarships, Financial Assistance Grants, Natural Disaster Relief, Mental Health Resiliency with free counseling; and Community Engagement. Founded 25 years ago in response to 9/11, the Foundation has uplifted all children of first responders across the country.