When large-scale disasters strike, such as the recent wave of hurricanes, first responders are often among the victims, suffering damage to their homes and property while putting their lives on the line to serve their communities. The National Volunteer Fire Council’s Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund helps these first responders in need.

The fund provides a stipend of $250 to volunteer first responders whose homes have been impacted by a state- or federally declared disaster. The stipend helps these firefighters and emergency personnel meet their basic needs in the aftermath of the disaster. The NVFC donates all administrative costs associated with managing the fund, so all donations go directly to helping volunteer first responders in need.

“We created the fund in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and have since also been able to help first responders across the country affected by a number of large-scale disasters, including floods, tornadoes, and others,” said NVFC Chairman Philip C. Stittleburg. “Thanks to the generosity of donors to the fund, we have been able to distribute close to $500,000 to volunteer first responders in need.

“In order to keep the fund going, we need support. I ask that all individuals and organizations consider making a contribution to help us in our efforts to assist volunteer first responders impacted by a disaster.”

To receive a stipend through the Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be from an NVFC-member state as an individual or department member of the state association.
Be an active volunteer firefighter, rescue worker, or EMS provider.
Have incurred an uninsurable loss in excess of $5,000.
Live (or have housing) in a state- or federally declared disaster area.

All applications are reviewed by the NVFC director from the applicant’s state fire association and also require signature approval from the chief of the department.

More information is available at www.nvfc.org/supportfund