First Responders Children's Foundation (FRCF), the only national nonprofit focused exclusively on supporting the children and families of first responders, has announced the recipients of its 2026 scholarship program. This year, the organization is providing $905,943 in scholarships to 249 students across 41 states, reaffirming its commitment to recognizing and supporting families who share in the service and sacrifices of first responders.
FRCF received more than 900 scholarship applications this year. Awards support a diverse range of educational goals, including four-year universities, community colleges, trade schools, and other post-secondary programs. Notably, more than 72% of this year's recipients are returning scholars, demonstrating the organization's sustained investment in students throughout their educational journeys. At the same time, only 27% of applicants received scholarships, underscoring the significant demand for continued financial assistance.
"When a first responder puts on a uniform, the whole family serves alongside them, with children bearing an unspoken share of the burden that comes with the job," said Jillian Crane, President and CEO of First Responders Children's Foundation.
"The students receiving these scholarships reflect the true heart, grit, and selflessness modeled in their homes, and that is why our scholarship program goes well beyond simply monetary support. While financial aid is essential, by integrating students into the growing community of the Scholars Council, hosting Speaker Series panels, and opening doors to peer networking and leadership opportunities, we surround these remarkable students with a lasting community of support. Every scholar has a story of courage and a bright future ahead of them, and we are proud to invest in their complete academic and personal growth."
FRCF's scholarship initiative extends beyond financial assistance. It reflects the organization's broader mission of ensuring that children of first responders have the encouragement, resources, and community support they need to pursue their ambitions and build successful futures.
2026 Scholarship Highlights
FRCF received more than 900 scholarship applications this year. Awards support a diverse range of educational goals, including four-year universities, community colleges, trade schools, and other post-secondary programs. Notably, more than 72% of this year's recipients are returning scholars, demonstrating the organization's sustained investment in students throughout their educational journeys. At the same time, only 27% of applicants received scholarships, underscoring the significant demand for continued financial assistance.
"When a first responder puts on a uniform, the whole family serves alongside them, with children bearing an unspoken share of the burden that comes with the job," said Jillian Crane, President and CEO of First Responders Children's Foundation.
"The students receiving these scholarships reflect the true heart, grit, and selflessness modeled in their homes, and that is why our scholarship program goes well beyond simply monetary support. While financial aid is essential, by integrating students into the growing community of the Scholars Council, hosting Speaker Series panels, and opening doors to peer networking and leadership opportunities, we surround these remarkable students with a lasting community of support. Every scholar has a story of courage and a bright future ahead of them, and we are proud to invest in their complete academic and personal growth."
FRCF's scholarship initiative extends beyond financial assistance. It reflects the organization's broader mission of ensuring that children of first responders have the encouragement, resources, and community support they need to pursue their ambitions and build successful futures.
2026 Scholarship Highlights
- 180 students are returning FRCF scholars, receiving nearly $639,000 in continued support, while 69 new recipients received a combined $267,000 in scholarships.
- 79% of scholarships support undergraduate studies, 18% support graduate education, and 3% are designated for community college and trade-school programs.
- 47 recipients have lost a parent, including 44 whose parents died in the line of duty.
- 24 recipients are children of NYPD officers, receiving a combined $73,000, while 30 recipients are children of FDNY members, receiving a total of $109,500. These awards continue FRCF's longstanding commitment to New York City's first responder families.
The 2026 scholarship program is made possible through the generous support of CSX Pride in Service, SERVPRO, Devon Energy, The Ahlsten Foundation, Motorola Solutions Foundation, The Braun Foundation, Patrick Cantlay Foundation, Johnson Controls, Home Clean Heroes, Louis Vuitton, T-Mobile, TIAA, Indigo Oak Fund, Smiling Rocks, Christina Rehkop Memorial Fund, Brian Payne Memorial Fund, Sandy J. Lupo Memorial Fund, Ford's Garage, and the Luis Alvarez Memorial Fund.
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