First Responders Children's Foundation Launches Mental Health and Resiliency Program in Washington

The program will provide free, culturally-competent counseling for the children of first responders in Washington state

NEW YORK, Sept. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- First Responders Children's Foundation (FRCF), the only national nonprofit dedicated to serving the children and families of first responders, today announced the launch of their Mental Health and Resiliency Program within Washington State. The program will provide free, culturally-competent counseling for the children of all first responders, including fire, law enforcement, EMTs, paramedics, 911 dispatchers, and corrections officers, across Washington who are in need of support.

Currently, the Mental Health Resiliency Program provides free, confidential mental health counseling 24/7 to children of first responders in 9 states — California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Given an existing and growing youth mental health crisis - stress, anxiety, and depression are only magnified for children with first responder parents - Washington will become the 10th state where FRCF will offer these services. Children ages 25 and under of first responders in local, state, federal, and volunteer agencies, both active and retired, can participate in the program.

"We are so excited to announce the expansion of our mental health programing in Washington with the support of our local First Responder agencies in the state," said First Responders Children's Foundation President and CEO, Jillian Crane. "The launch of our Mental Health and Resiliency Program in Washington underscores our mission to support the children of first responders throughout the nation and is a major milestone in the growth of our services."

"Seattle Fire Dept is excited to welcome First Responders Children's Foundation's Mental Health Resiliency program to Washington State," said Kristin Cox, Behavioral Health Coordinator, Seattle FD. "FRCF's counseling program supports the unique emotional needs of children growing up in first responder families like ours. Ensuring these kids have access to free, compassionate, and culturally‑competent care is essential to helping them build resilience and thrive."

Since its launch in 2022, the Mental Health and Resiliency Program has supported over 828 children and has provided over 5,000 hours of services from licensed mental health providers who are trained and experienced in supporting first responder children and families. In addition to counseling, FRCF offers a growing selection of mental health and wellness resources designed to support open communication, reduce isolation and strengthen family connections, such as parent coaching, full-day resiliency workshops, and family wellness retreats. These services create a safe space for children to express their feelings, seek support, and build healthy coping skills.

Counseling support for the children of Washington expands a proven partnership with Centerstone—a nonprofit health system that provides a wide range of mental health services for children, families, and adults with a specialized focus on first responders, military, and veterans—after receiving positive impact and feedback from children and families in other states.

"We have seen firsthand the unique challenges first responder families face, and the meaningful impact timely, accessible support can have on the well-being of their children," Centerstone Military Services CEO Anna Goletz said. "We know this is a resilient and remarkable community, and we believe deeply in the importance of ensuring first responder families have the resources they need to thrive. We are honored to expand our partnership with the First Responders Children's Foundation and bring these services to the children of first responders in Washington."

To learn more about the FRCF Mental Health & Resiliency program, please visit 1strcf.org/mental-health.

ABOUT FIRST RESPONDERS CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION:
First Responders Children's Foundation is a national nonprofit that provides programs and resources that address the specific needs of first responders and their families. The Foundation focuses on five key areas: Scholarships, Financial Assistance Grants, Natural Disaster Relief, Mental Health Resiliency with free counseling; and Community Engagement. The Foundation was founded 25 years ago in response to 9/11 when 800 children lost a first responder parent and today uplifts all children of first responders across the country. Additional information about FRCF can be found at www.1stRCF.org and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @1strcf.

CONTACT:
Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis
[email protected]
(212) 691-2800

SOURCE First Responders Children's Foundation