Reflecting on this past month’s recognition of national preparedness, in addition to the wide-spread response to the impact of recent natural disasters, Benefits.gov is acknowledging the service and bravery of our community first responders. We understand the importance in recognizing those men and women who work and volunteer around the clock to ensure public safety where we live.
Programs for First Responders
On Benefits.gov, these emergency personnel can find many assistance programs specific to them and their families. A few of these programs include:
- State Fire Training Systems Grants provide financial assistance to firefighters and emergency rescue personnel looking to take additional National Fire Academy courses to deepen their skills and further their careers.
- The Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program provides a benefit to the eligible survivors of Federal, state, or local public safety officers whose injury was sustained in the line of duty. This program also provides a disability benefit to eligible public safety officers who have been permanently disabled by an injury sustained in the line of duty.
- Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) is a contributory retirement system for certain Federal employees. Eligibility for this program is based on age and service requirements.
Volunteer Opportunities
For citizens looking for ways to give back and help keep their communities safe, there are many ways to volunteer. Ready.gov provides an extensive list of local opportunities from Medical Reserve Corps, Fire Corps and more.
Check out our articles Get into the Giving Spirit and Spread Holiday Cheer: Donate Blood for more information on volunteer opportunities.
We thank all our first responders from our firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and other emergency and rescue professionals. Benefits.gov can help you and your families find the resources and assistance information you need. For more information about service-related programs, visit the Volunteer Opportunities category or take the Benefit Finder questionnaire on Benefits.gov to find benefit information specific to you and your situation.
