

CANCER SCREENING INITIATIVE
Over the past decade, heart disease and cancer have accounted for the majority of on-duty firefighter deaths. In Boston specifically, between 2012 and 2017, 27 Boston Firefighters under the age of 70 died from cancer. During that same time, 12 firefighters died of cancer within 5 years of retirement and 6 active firefighters died from cancer. These statistics are alarming and require action.
Cancer awareness and prevention has become a major focus for fire departments nationwide. Statistics show that firefighters are more than twice as likely to develop cancer during their lifetime compared to civilians and in Boston specifically, 67% of firefighters will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Even after additional precautionary measures have been implemented across the Department, the number of cancer diagnosis and death continue to rise at an alarming rate. There is hope however. The Boston Fire Department Relief Fund is excited to be partnering with Safety, Health and Wellness along with the Last Call Foundation to bring Relief to members of the BFD.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS INITIATIVE
SCHOLARSHIPS
Each year the Boston Fire Department Relief Fund provides 9 scholarships to aspiring students of Boston Firefighters looking to further their education.
2020 Scholarship Winners:
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- Vendome Firefighters Memorial Scholarship
- Catherine Gormley
- Kayliz Ortega
- Vendome Firefighters Memorial Scholarship
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- Local 718 Memorial Race Scholarships
- Roman Blake
- Nicole Ojugbana
- Olivia Burke
- Local 718 Memorial Race Scholarships
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- Dennis Flynn Memorial Scholarships
- Bria Hanley
- Joseph Connolly
- Dennis Flynn Memorial Scholarships
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- Boston Ambulance Squad Scholarship
- Michael McLaughlin
- Boston Ambulance Squad Scholarship
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- Victoria McGrath Scholarship
- Kya Freeman
- Victoria McGrath Scholarship

ANNUAL BALL & AWARDS
Each year in early May, the Relief Fund hosts the Annual Ball and Award’s Ceremony. This event provides us the opportunity to honor the bravery and dedication of the Men and Women of the Boston Fire Department and award them for their heroic efforts throughout the year.