First Responders Children's Foundation Announces More Than $900,000 in Scholarships for Children of First Responders

Cornerstone program helps children of first responders nationwide achieve their dreams

NEW YORK, July 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- First Responders Children's Foundation (FRCF), a national nonprofit dedicated to serving the children and families of first responders, today announced the recipients of its 2025 Scholarships. This year, FRCF is awarding $905,288 in academic scholarships to 300 students representing 42 states, continuing its mission to honor the service and sacrifice of first responder families across the United States.

"We know when a first responder takes an oath to serve others, their children carry that burden too, silently serving and sacrificing with them. These scholars embody the strength, resilience, and service-minded values of their families," said Jillian Crane, President and CEO of First Responders Children's Foundation. "Behind every one of our recipients is a story of courage, and a future filled with potential. We're honored to play a part in that journey, helping open doors to opportunity and supporting them every step of the way."

This year, more than 68% of scholarship recipients are returning scholars, a powerful reflection of First Responders Children's Foundation's long-term commitment to these students. FRCF scholarships are awarded for a wide range of educational paths, including four-year colleges, community colleges, trade schools, and more. The FRCF scholarship program is so much more than financial assistance. From day one, scholars are welcomed into a growing community through our Scholars Council, gain valuable insight from our Speaker Series panels, connect through peer networking, and access unique FRCF opportunities, events, and leadership opportunities. These touchpoints offer encouragement, connection, and resources that extend far beyond tuition checks.

At its core, the FRCF scholarship program embodies the Foundation's vision: a future where every community uplifts the children of first responders to grow, thrive, and achieve their dreams

Scholar Highlights

• 204 are returning scholars continuing their academic journey with FRCF support
  
  
• 169 recipients have lost a parent or have a parent who was seriously injured in the line of duty
  
  
• Scholars represent families from Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming
  
  
• Parent professions represented include:
  • Law Enforcement: 157
    
    
  • Fire Services: 137
    
    
  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS/EMTs/Paramedics): 6
    
    
  • 911 Dispatch: 3
• 41 FDNY and 22 NYPD scholars continue FRCF's strong legacy of support for New York City first responder families

All scholarships funded through our generous partners at CSX, SERVPRO, Devon Energy, The Ahlsten Foundation, Motorola Solutions Foundation, Scooter Braun Foundation, Patrick Cantlay Foundation, Johnson Controls, Home Clean Heroes, Louis Vuitton, T-Mobile, TIAA, JF Maddox Foundation, Progress Rail, Baker and Emily Mayfield Foundation, Ryan McDonagh Giving Bowl, Indigo Oak Fund, The Rosewood Foundation, Smiling Rocks, Niagara Cares, Universal Music Group Nashville, Christina Rehkop Memorial Fund, Brian Payne Memorial Fund, Sandy J. Lupo Memorial Fund, Ford's Garage, Cradlepoint/Verizon, PwC Charitable Foundation, and The Luis Alvarez Memorial Fund.

Supporters can learn more and help fund the dreams of next year's scholars at: https://1strcf.org/scholarship

ABOUT FIRST RESPONDERS CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION: First Responders Children's Foundation is a national foundation that provides programs and resources that address the specific needs of first responders and their families. The Foundation focuses on four key areas: Scholarships, Financial Assistance Grants, a Mental Health Resilience Program, and Community Engagement. The Foundation was founded 24 years ago in response to 9/11 when 800 children lost a first responder parent. Additional information about FRCF can be found at www.1stRCF.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @1strcf

CONTACT:
Joshua Natoli
[email protected]
845-332-7933

SOURCE First Responders Children's Foundation