Friends of Firefighters

Click to view this email in a browser Dear Friend, The public calls it PTSD. New York City firefighters don't call it anything. Firefighters experience things that no human being is meant to endure; this burden weighs on them and their families every day. Firefighters rarely refer to the deeply disturbing scenes they encounter on the job. Used to being the ones who help others, it is difficult for them to seek help or even recognize the emotional andphysical drain they themselves experience. That’s when Friends of Firefighterssteps in. One example is a firefighter who survived a fatal fire that took the lives of several of his fellow firefighters: “It was a nightmare. I was unable to be in my home without checking the windows and doors to make sure I could get out quickly. I woke up my wife more than once calling out in my sleep, thinking I was still at the job. I know I was scaring my wife and kids, but I just couldn’t cope. Thankfully, someone referred my wife to Friends of Firefighters and we both went. It was only through the counseling and wellness services they provided that I started putting the pieces of my life back together. Now I feel more in control in the firehouse and at home.” Friends of Firefighters has earned the trust of the FDNY (Fire Department of New York) community. We are the only non-profit that provides free confidential services to active and retired FDNY firefighters and their families. However, our critical work is made possible entirely due to the support of generous donors. We have entrusted New York City firefighters to protect our city, our homes and offices, our families, and ourselves. That incredible responsibility comes with a huge toll.  At this time of giving we ask you, on behalf of those who run in when everyone else runs out, to assist our Bravest and their families by making as generous a gift as possible to Friends of Firefighters today. Or mail your contribution to 199 Van Brunt Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231 Checks should be made out to Friends of Firefighters With best holiday and New Year wishes,   Nancy Carbone, Founder & Executive Director  Friends of Firefighters is dedicated to addressing the physical, mental health and wellness needs of New York City's firefighters. Our ongoing mission is to provide long-term support and services through confidential counseling, wellness services, and other assistance required by firefighters and their families. If you or a family member would like to know more about our services, contact us. 199 Van Brunt Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231 t: 718.643.0980   f: 718.643.1240 e: info@friendsoffirefighters.org   w: www.friendsoffirefighters.org      Friends of Firefighters is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation. Contributions are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Upon request, a copy of our most recent financial report may be obtained by writing to us at 199 Van Brunt Street, NY 11231 or by writing to the NYS Office of the Attorney General, Charities Bureau, at 120 Broadway, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10271.