What do you think of when you hear about the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF)?
You might think of the annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend or the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial on the grounds of the National Emergency Training Center in Emmitsburg, Maryland. But did you know that the NFFF supports the family members of fallen firefighters year-round?
Here are some examples of how the NFFF honors fallen firefighters by providing resources and programs to their families.
The NFFF provides ongoing support for families because we understand that everyone’s experience with grief is unique. One way we do this is by offering regular virtual support groups. The support groups provide a safe space for family members to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences, share their stories, and find comfort in knowing they aren’t alone. There are weekly and monthly support groups for family members, including a specialized support group for men. New in 2024 is a support group for children ages 13-17 whose firefighter parent, stepparent, or sibling is honored at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial.
Throughout the year, the NFFF hosts in-person gatherings of families of fallen firefighters for connection, comfort, and camaraderie. Trained facilitators conduct workshops to offer grief guidance, and family members have opportunities to share their experiences. Some gatherings are for specific groups, such as our Comfort Zone Camp for children ages 7-17. And this year, we will gather adult family members at our Fire Hero Family Conference and offer specialized workshops related to grief, wellness, self-care, and practical life skills.
The NFFF offers scholarships to children, stepchildren, and spouses of honored firefighters to help ease the financial burden of higher education. The scholarships allow family members to pursue their academic goals. The scholarship application period is open until March 1 each year for the following academic year. Visit firehero.org/scholarships for eligibility and application information.
The NFFF created the Grief in Progress podcast featuring one-on-one conversations with family members of fallen firefighters. Shared stories are powerful tools of hope for anyone grieving – regardless of whether their loved one was a firefighter. Visit griefinprogress.com or your favorite podcast platform to listen to Grief in Progress.
NFFF is committed to providing ongoing care and resources to family members to ensure they receive the support they need to heal, remember, and honor their loved ones. With all our programs and resources, we aim to build a supportive community where family members can find understanding and empathy. We hope that by being part of our community, they find comfort in knowing their loved ones will always be remembered.
NFFF’s Mission
Our mission is to honor America’s fallen fire heroes; support their families, colleagues, and organizations; and work to reduce preventable firefighter death and injury.
Help Us Honor a Fire Hero
Do you know a firefighter honored at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial? Visit the Roll of Honor to post a comment on the firefighter’s profile.
National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend
Every year, the Foundation sponsors the official national tribute to all firefighters who died in the line of duty during the previous year. The weekend features private activities for Fire Hero Families and co-workers and public ceremonies. View highlights from the 2024 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend at weekend.firehero.org. Please save the date for the 2025 National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend, which will be held on May 3-5, 2025, in Emmitsburg, Maryland.
