First Responders Foundation · South Florida
Two Lives.One Mission.Endless Hope.
Supporting First Responders and Veterans Through the Healing Power of Dogs.
First Responders Foundation is dedicated to supporting those who serve our communities through meaningful programs that promote connection, resilience, and well-being. From our Service Dog Program to emergency responder support through Canteen 33, we believe those who dedicate their lives to helping others deserve support in return.
Our Mission
They Answer the Call. We Answer Theirs.
Every day, firefighters, police officers, emergency medical personnel, dispatchers, and veterans dedicate their lives to protecting others. They run toward emergencies, carry the weight of difficult calls, and remain ready long after a shift ends.
First Responders Foundation exists to support these individuals in return, through programs that strengthen resilience, promote connection, and build supportive communities around the people who keep South Florida safe.
- Firefighters01
- Law Enforcement Officers02
- Emergency Medical Personnel03
- Emergency Dispatchers04
- Military Veterans05
Pictured: Luna, the Foundation's ambassador dog.
Program 01 · Service Dog Program
More Than a Dog. A Lifeline of Support.
In partnership with Big Dog Ranch Rescue, our program connects those who serve with carefully evaluated, professionally trained dogs. The bond between a person and a well-matched dog can offer companionship, structure, and a steady presence through the demands of a career in service.
Who it serves
Active and retired firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, dispatchers, and military veterans in Palm Beach and Broward counties.
How to apply
Apply through this website. The Foundation reviews each application for completeness and basic eligibility, then refers qualifying applicants to Big Dog Ranch Rescue.
Evaluation and training
Big Dog Ranch Rescue makes the final approval decision, evaluates and approves every dog, and oversees training, placement, and follow-up.
How donors help
The program is free to approved participants. Donations help make each partnership between a responder and a dog possible.
Program 02 · Canteen 33
Supporting Those on the Front Lines.
Canteen 33 is the Foundation's mobile canteen and nonmedical rehabilitation support program, serving primarily Palm Beach County. During extended incidents, training events, and emergency operations, Canteen 33 assists requesting agencies with drinking water, electrolyte beverages, coffee, snacks, food, and hot meals when available, so crews can rest, rehydrate, and return to work.
Coordinated, never self-deployed. Canteen 33 responds only when requested or authorized by an appropriate public safety agency, and every deployment is coordinated with the requesting agency.
Program 03 · Lifeline Assistance
Coming SoonFirst Responders Lifeline Assistance Program
We are developing a program to provide short-term emergency financial assistance to eligible first responders and their families facing hardship from serious illness, injury, or death. The program is under development and is not yet accepting applications or providing assistance.
Get Involved
Ways to Make a Difference
Donate
Support the Foundation's mission and programs with a one-time or monthly gift.
In Memoriam
Remembering Frank Turner — A Legacy of Giving
For more than 20 years, Frank Turner volunteered as Santa Claus aboard a historic 1961 ladder truck, bringing Christmas joy to children and families, including children in hospitals. When Frank was diagnosed with ALS, our community came together to support Frank and his wife, Becky.
20+
Years as Santa
1961
Historic ladder truck
About $8,000
Raised for Frank & Becky
Donate
Your Support Can Change Lives.
A gift to First Responders Foundation helps sustain the programs that stand beside those who stand between our communities and harm. Whether you give once or every month, your generosity becomes evaluations, training, nourishment on long nights, and a community that shows up for its responders.
First Responders Foundation is registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, registration number CH72758. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (1-800-HELP-FLA / 1-800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE OR VISITING FDACS.gov. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.