NFFF to establish support network for firefighters` survivors
The Department of Justice`s Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) has awarded the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) a $15,000 grant to develop a nationwide support network for families of firefighters who have died in the line of duty. The funding, the first given for such a support program in the fire service, is part of the BJA`s Public Safety Officers` Benefits program. The Concerns of Police Survivors (COPS), a support group for families of fallen law enforcement personnel, has been receiving BJA grants for several years.
The new program will “provide emotional support to fire service survivors through seminars and U a nationwide network of trained grief counselors and peer supporters,” according to the NFFF. A clearinghouse on national, state, and local benefits available to firefighters` survivors will also be established.
In early October 1997, an advisory group of survivors met to discuss an effective framework for the new fire service project. Officials from COPS presented an overview of its establishment and current activities. The advisory group recommended that the NFFF work closely with fire departments in developing a national network, to ensure cooperation from the program`s inception. The NFFF has sent a survey to families of the 1996 fallen firefighters to determine which types of resources and information are most needed at all stages of their recovery. Survivors of firefighters who died in the line of duty during 1995 will be sent a similar survey form. After survey results are available, the NFFF will meet with key fire service organizations to discuss the results and coordinate actions.
