New Memorial Grant Program supports first responder families

April 16, 2018 – The Government of Canada has launched the Memorial Grant Program for First Responders, a new grant program that “recognizes the service and sacrifice of first responders who die as a direct result of carrying out their duties.”

Through the Memorial Grant Program, families of first responders — police, firefighters and paramedics, including volunteers, reservists and auxiliary members — that lose a loved one as a direct result of their duties, will receive a one-time lump sum, tax-free payment of $300,000.

“The Memorial Grant Program will mean an incredible amount to the families of first responders. Every day, firefighters, police and paramedics put the safety of others before themselves in the delivery of emergency services to the public,” said Fire Chief Ken Block of the Edmonton Fire Rescue Services and president of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs. “It’s absolutely vital for them to know that their families will be taken care of in the event that the worst happens. I thank our government for putting this program in place and creating such a recognition of sacrifice.”

The feds say they’ve committed a total of $117.4 million over five years, starting in 2018 to 2019, and $23.4 million per year after that for this program.

The program took effect on April 1, 2018 and will be implemented in co-operation with provinces and territories.