How the CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation is Funded

No One Left Behind: Supporting Firefighters and Their Families Since 2014

No One Left Behind began in 2014 as a fundraising initiative for the CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation. Over the years, we've combined our resources and efforts to provide essential care and support to firefighters and their families across California and beyond.

Our fundraising events and generous donor contributions are the primary sources of funding that allow us to provide critical assistance during life’s toughest challenges—whether it's battling cancer, facing unexpected illnesses, or seeking behavioral health support. We stand by those affected by line-of-duty deaths and natural disasters, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to rebuild their lives.

Additionally, the CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation helps the families of fallen heroes pay tribute to their loved ones by covering travel expenses to attend memorials such as:

  • The California Firefighters Memorial in Sacramento

  • The Wildland Firefighters Memorial in Idaho

  • The IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in Colorado Springs

  • The National Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Emmitsburg, Maryland

Each year, we provide financial assistance to firefighter families to participate in these solemn tributes, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

In 2018, our Foundation provided over $178,000 in aid to California firefighters and their families who lost their homes in the devastating CAMP Fire in Butte County. Over the last two years, we extended support to more than 200 firefighters affected by wildfires in Maui, Arizona, Northern California, and the recent Los Angeles fires.

It’s important to recognize that while firefighters are on the front lines protecting communities, their own homes are often at risk. Many return from fighting fires only to find their own homes reduced to ashes. Over the past three years alone, our Foundation has provided over $330,000 in direct aid to more than 240 firefighters and their families, along with an additional $100,000 in support for organizations that share our mission.

As the demand for assistance continues to grow, we receive more requests for financial support each year. This is why your donations and participation are more crucial than ever.

Your support empowers us to stand beside our heroes when they need it most. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Our Mission

CAL FIRE, California’s Fire Department, is the largest fire department in the United States, dedicated to protecting lives, property, and natural resources. The CAL FIRE Benevolent Foundation, through initiatives like No One Left Behind, raises funds year-round by hosting events across California to provide critical support to those who serve.

Our mission is to offer essential financial assistance and resources to firefighters, fire suppression personnel, and their families during times of hardship. Whether facing financial struggles, unexpected illness, or loss, we are committed to standing by our firefighter community with unwavering support.

The Foundation provides aid in a variety of ways, including:

  • Supporting Firefighters' Health and Well-Being – We assist those facing physical illnesses, behavioral health challenges, and the emotional toll that comes with a demanding career.

  • Preparing Families for the Unthinkable – We provide resources and support to help firefighter families navigate the realities of planning for their loved one’s potential line-of-duty death, ensuring they are informed and supported every step of the way.

  • Offering Immediate Relief – We are here for families who need immediate financial support to cover basic necessities, helping them get through tough times with dignity.

  • Extending a Helping Hand – Whether it's assisting families displaced by fires, supporting fire service parents caring for an ill child, or standing with those who have lost their homes, we provide comfort and hope.

  • Investing in Firefighter Safety – We contribute to research focused on identifying and addressing the unique hazards and exposures firefighters face on the job.

Through the generosity of donors and fundraising efforts, we ensure that no firefighter or their family faces these challenges alone.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

  • Support Our Own – Providing CAL FIRE members and their families with the financial assistance they need during life's toughest challenges.

  • Offer Strength and Hope – Sharing our experiences to help firefighters and their families navigate the hardships they face year after year.

  • Champion Health and Wellness – Encouraging proactive cancer screenings, mental health awareness, and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

  • Build a Stronger Community – Reminding firefighters and their families that they are never alone in facing illness, injury, or loss.

Together, we stand by our heroes. Together, we can make a lasting impact.