First responders, like firefighters and paramedics, face dangerous and traumatic situations daily. For them, it’s just another day on the job. But for those benefiting from their brave actions, you may wonder how to say thank you and honor them. So here are 7 ways to show appreciation and honor your local firefighters and paramedics any time of the year.
Sure, some memorial statues and ceremonies recognizing the brave men and women pop up throughout the country. But you may be looking for a more personal way to show appreciation to your local firefighters and paramedics. Keep reading below for a few ideas to get you started!
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Honor Your Local Firefighters and Paramedics
1. Write a Thank You Letter
It may seem like the days of writing letters are long gone since electronic communication has taken over. But taking a few moments to put pen to paper and send a physical thank you letter to your local first responders may feel more personal than sending an email.
You can send your letter directly to the fire station or department or have it published in the local newspaper. Publishing it may cost a few dollars, but the department’s men and women will appreciate your effort.
2. Deliver a Home-Cooked Meal
A single shift as a first responder can be stressful and exhausting. They work irregular schedules that cause them to miss meals at home. These dedicated individuals will be grateful for having a home-cooked meal delivered to the station. This small token of gratitude can cost you as little or as much as you’d like!
Baked goods, like cookies and doughnuts, are simple items that go a long way. These can be homemade or bought from a local bakery if you’re short on time. Either way, personally delivering them will allow you to thank the team of first responders personally.
3. Make a Donation
Every community has its organizations that support first responders. Donating to these clubs or charities can make a substantial difference in the lives of first responders and their families. Many of these organizations, like the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, help those injured on the job or help pay for memorial services and additional funeral expenses.
Commit to an amount that you’re comfortable with. However, if you don’t have the means to contribute financially, there are numerous other ways you can help. You can donate your time by organizing or volunteering at another event that supports first responders.
4. Pay for Their Order
Whether you’re enjoying a meal at a restaurant or waiting in line at the grocery store, you can make a simple yet much-appreciated gesture when you see a first responder. Consider paying for their order.
This gesture can range in cost, from a quick drive-through meal to a hundred-dollar cart full of groceries. No matter how much you invest, it will make an impact.
5. Volunteer Your Time
Some communities have a small station with a small budget. Volunteers are always appreciated. You can plant flowers, organize office supplies, or offer to perform some housekeeping duties. It’s a simple gesture that requires as much or as little time as you have.
6. Send a Care Package
First responders are always on the go. You can send a care package from Operation Gratitude to help give them a boost. These packages include daily necessities like:
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm
- Cleaning wipes
- Energy shots
- Body wipes
- Instant coffee
You can send these packages at no cost or create your own. Consider making a basket with items like hand sanitizer, gift cards, and other snacks.
7. Nominate a First Responder
The courageous men and women who work as firefighters and paramedics don’t do it for the awards and nominations they may receive. However, you can honor a first responder by entering their name for a prize or other award.
One way to honor a local first responder is to enter them into the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. This program enters them for an opportunity to win a trip for them and their loved ones to a college bowl game and step on the field for public recognition for their dedication and sacrifice.
This kind gesture doesn’t cost anything for you to enter, and it will only take a few moments to complete the form. The first responder you enter will be grateful for your thoughtfulness.
How Will You Honor First Responders?
There are numerous ways to show your gratitude toward local first responders. This list will get you started, but one last simple idea is to thank you. You never know how far a kind word and a smile will go.
For more on this topic, check out the full Helping Others collection
