"The Foundation received overwhelming support in 2015 from the firefighting community and the general public," Foundation board chair and President/CEO of the credit union said.  "The Foundation is proud to be of service, reminding those who are grieving, experiencing a crisis or feeling hopeless that they are not alone. We are your fire family and we can help."

A few of those helped by the Foundation included the following:

·        Family and friends of Wendy, a veteran firefighter/paramedic and 9/11 first responder  who passed away from lung cancer; the Foundation underwrote her memorial service

·        Four-year-old Cecilia who has been battling cancer most of her life

·        Young firefighter Damien who was injured on the job when a tree limb fell on him leaving him without the use of his legs

·        Partnering with Oakland Firefighters Random Acts to support 33 firefighters in Northern California who lost their own homes to fire

·        Jennifer, a firefighter who became a widow unexpectedly when her firefighting husband passed away suddenly

·        Fire Captain Pete who was critically burned fighting a house fire

·        Victims of the devastating fires in Middletown, Lake County and other communities in Northern California.

"In 2015 the Foundation expended nearly $19,000 in burial expenses, with another $80,000 going for mortgage and housing costs.  Those are just some costs. We lend a helping hand when victims feel alone and not sure where to turn. We can make a difference to those in need, especially our firefighting community," Foundation Executive Director Robin McCarthy said.