Every day, first responders answer the call — rushing toward emergencies when the rest of us are rushing away. Firefighters, paramedics, EMTs, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and other frontline professionals stand ready 24/7 to protect lives and property, often at great personal risk.

But behind the sirens and uniforms are real people, families, and organizations that face enormous challenges. Thousands of first responder agencies across the country operate with outdated equipment, limited training budgets, and critical staffing shortages. Many departments — especially in smaller communities — struggle to keep their doors open.

Numbers That Tell Their Story

• Over the past 20 years, the number of volunteer firefighters has dropped 25% -- even as the US population has increased by nearly 40%
• Nearly 40% of EMS roles and 55% of Paramedic roles remain unfilled.
• Over 150 First Responders are killed in the line of duty annually, with thousands more injured. 

And this is during the GOOD times!

When the Storm Hits, They Stay Behind

When disaster strikes — a hurricane, wildfire, flood, or tornado — first responders don’t have the option to leave. They remain in place, working around the clock while their own homes and families are left vulnerable. Departments often lose power and communication, and run short on supplies during disasters, forcing responders to improvise with whatever resources are left. Stations themselves may flood or burn, leaving crews without a base to operate from, yet they keep responding to calls for help.

For the men and women on the front lines, the toll is more than physical. They work through exhaustion and hunger, knowing their loved ones are far away and out of reach. They face the emotional weight of rescuing neighbors while wondering if their own families are safe.

And when the storm finally passes, responders are left not only with communities to rebuild, but often with homes and lives of their own in ruins. Depression, PTSD, and survivor's guilt are common amongst first responders after a disaster, but often go unreported and are rarely treated because of the stigmas associated with mental health issues. This has led to first responders having a suicide rate that is higher than almost any other profession.