Hero Fund America Fund Announces Awards in Support of First Responders

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties Hero Fund America Fund has awarded $10,000 to increase awareness, advocacy and support for fire, emergency medical services (EMS), and law enforcement agencies in New York and other states.

This year’s recipients include:

• Central Oneida County Volunteer Ambulance Corps in Clinton - $1,000 to purchase new supplies for its training center and classes.
• Code 1 Wellness in Kansas City, Missouri - $500 for nutrition services to local fire houses, police departments, and hospitals.
• Furos, Inc., in Maple Grove, Minnesota - $1,000 for travel expenses, student materials and research associated with the launch of Emotional Intelligence test courses.
• Granville Engine and Hose Co. #1 in Granville - $1,000 to purchase a thermal imaging camera.
• Guardian Revival, Inc., in Carmel - $500 to assemble trauma kits for local law enforcement.
• Junction City Fire Department in Junction City, Kansas - $1,000 to purchase three throw bags and a swift water rescue board.
• Platteville Fire Department in Platteville, Wisconsin - $1,000 to purchase Hazmat equipment.
• Richmondville Volunteer Emergency Squad in Richmondville - $1,000 to update PPE member EMS jackets.
• South Aikin First Responders in Aiken, Minnesota - $1,000 to purchase patient lifting equipment.
• South Minden Volunteer Fire Department in Fort Plain - $1,000 to purchase firefighting gloves.
• Tallulah Fire Department in Tallulah, Louisiana - $1,000 to purchase a thermal imaging camera.

Hero Fund America Fund was founded in partnership with Hero Fund America, Inc., by Garth Roberts of Sharon Springs. Inspired by the selfless and heroic efforts of first responders during the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, Roberts initiated the Provincetown First Responders Appreciation Month, honoring 45 Boston EMS paramedics, emergency medical technicians, dispatchers and their families. The success of this project resulted in the formation of Hero Fund America. Roberts was honored with a special citation from Boston EMS for his efforts in response to the Boston Marathon tragedy.

“Despite the challenges every not-for-profit has endured over the past year and a half, Hero Fund America has reimagined some if its fundraising opportunities, both in person and virtual, in ways that continue to generate support for those serving in emergency services,” said Roberts. “Our partnership with the Community Foundation has provided an enduring and sustainable home for the HFA Fund, for which we are grateful.”

Since the fund’s inception in 2016, Hero Fund America Fund has awarded more than $30,000 to further the needs of first responders. For more information or to make a donation to the fund, visit foundationhoc.org/hero.

“Hero Fund America’s inspiring efforts support emergency response organizations both near and far,” said Alicia Dicks, president/CEO of the Community Foundation. “With 9/11’s 20^th anniversary reminding us all of first responders’ heroism, we are honored that the Community Foundation can help Garth Roberts and Hero Fund America fulfill its remarkable mission.”