First Responders Children’s Foundation Awards $905,943 in Scholarships

Demand for the program remains high, as the foundation received over 900 applications but was able to fund only 27 percent of them. Of the recipients, 180 are returning scholars, underscoring the organization's commitment to supporting students throughout their entire academic journey. The distribution includes 79 percent for undergraduate studies, 18 percent for graduate work, and 3 percent for vocational or community college paths.

Beyond financial assistance, the foundation integrates recipients into a support network featuring peer networking and leadership panels. According to Jillian Crane, President and CEO of the foundation, the program aims to recognize the unspoken burden carried by families of first responders. The cohort includes 47 students who have lost a parent, 44 of whom died in the line of duty. The awards were made possible through partnerships with corporate sponsors, including CSX, Motorola Solutions Foundation, and T-Mobile.