Help Volunteer Firefighters Affected by Recent Disasters

Help Volunteer Firefighters Affected by Recent Disasters


Published Date: 04.18.2011

Devastating storms and deadly tornadoes have hit states throughout nation over the past few weeks. Wildfires continue to rage in Texas during what is one of the worst wildfire seasons in the state’s history.

When disasters like these strike, communities rely on the dedication and services of emergency responders. However, often these first responders are also victims, suffering from property damage and loss along with their communities. The National Volunteer Fire Council’s (NVFC) Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund is designed to help volunteer first responders impacted by such tragedies.

Volunteer firefighters and EMS personnel affected by state- or federally-declared disaster can apply for a stipend of $250 to help meet basic needs in the aftermath of the disaster. To receive a stipend, the first responder must be an active volunteer firefighter, rescue worker, or EMS provider, be from an NVFC member state as an individual or department member of the state association, live (or have housing) in a state- or federally-declared disaster area, and have incurred an uninsurable loss in excess of $5,000. Learn more and apply for disaster relief at www.nvfc.org/supportfund.

The Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund relies on the donations of individuals and organizations to assist volunteer first responders in need. Click here to make your contribution to the fund. The NVFC donates all administrative costs associated with managing the fund, so all donations go directly to helping volunteer first responders in need.

Established in response to the devastation caused by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, the Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund has to date distributed almost half a million dollars to volunteer first responders in need. Click here to learn more.
NVFC Volunteer Firefighter Support Fund