Generosity has made all the difference in the lives of IAFF members and families impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Thanks to the support of donors, the IAFF Foundation has distributed $150,500 to 177 members whose homes were severely damaged by the storms, providing essential financial relief when it was needed most.
“When IAFF members go out the door, the IAFF Foundation is right behind them,” said General President Edward Kelly. “We’re committed to our mission – providing members with the support and resources they need – so that they can focus on their critical mission: Keeping the public safe in an emergency.”
Fire Family Foundation, the charitable arm of Firefighters First Credit Union, supported that work with a large gift to the IAFF Foundation.
“The Fire Family Foundation was created to stand by our fire family in their greatest times of need,” Dixie Abramian, president and CEO of Firefighters First Credit Union, said. “Being able to donate over $62,000 to help fire fighters and their families displaced by the recent hurricanes is a perfect example of why we exist.
“We’re proud to partner with the IAFF to ensure that firefighters and their families have the support they need when it matters most. Together, we’re stronger, and that’s what being part of the fire family is all about.”
The IAFF Foundation also received generous support from the Florida Professional Firefighters, which donated $15,000 following Helene, and from Miami-Dade Local 1403 and Broward County Local 4321, which each gave $10,000.
In addition to disaster relief, the IAFF Foundation supports behavioral health programs, burn injury assistance, cancer support and research, and scholarships for the survivors of fallen IAFF members, as well as the IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial.
“Like those we serve, the IAFF Foundation always shows up,” said Kelly. “That’s the promise we make to our members and their families. In this union, someone always has your back. We’re grateful to all those who help make that possible, including those who support the IAFF Foundation. It is thanks to their generosity that we can help those who help others.”
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With Giving Tuesday around the corner, consider a gift to the IAFF Foundation. Contributions help fire fighters, emergency medical workers, and their families in times of need. Learn more about the IAFF Foundation and make your tax-deductible donation at IAFFfoundation.org.
