Senator Jim Justice and Congressman George Latimer receive FRCF inaugural award

The First Responders Children’s Foundation established this annual honor to highlight public officials who demonstrate a sustained commitment to families behind the badge. During the reception, Foundation President and CEO Jillian Crane emphasized that the children of first responders carry a unique burden of sacrifice, necessitating a robust national support network. The organization provides scholarships, mental health counseling, and financial grants to these families, a mission rooted in the foundation's origins following the September 11 attacks.

Senator Justice described his advocacy for first responder families as a sacred duty rather than a mere policy priority, pledging to continue securing resources for those serving in West Virginia and nationwide. Congressman Latimer echoed these sentiments, noting that the families often shoulder the silent weight of service when first responders step into harm's way. The event, co-chaired by board member Matt McCauley and Tom Livingston of CSX, served as an introduction of the Foundation’s national impact programs to various congressional offices, aiming to expand the reach of their community engagement initiatives.