When we think of PTSD, trauma, and the need for support, our minds often gravitate toward military veterans. While the sacrifices of our soldiers are undeniable, there’s another group that often gets overlooked in this conversation: our police officers. These brave men and women face life-threatening situations daily, ensuring our communities remain safe. Yet, when it comes to charitable support, they often stand in the shadows of their military counterparts.
There are numerous charities dedicated to supporting our law enforcement officers, each catering to different needs. Some provide scholarships, while others offer financial assistance to the families of fallen officers. There are also charities focused on mental health support, legal defense, and more.
Today, let’s shine a light on five outstanding law enforcement charities that deserve our attention and support:
- National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF)
- Dedicated to honoring and remembering the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers in the U.S. They maintain the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
- Learn more about NLEOMF
- Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.)
- Provides resources to assist in rebuilding the lives of surviving families and affected co-workers of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.
- Discover how C.O.P.S. is making a difference
- Law Enforcement Legal Defense Fund
- Offers legal assistance to law enforcement officers and agencies facing legal challenges due to actions taken in the line of duty.
- Support the defense of our officers
- Badge of Life
- Focuses on mental health and wellness for police officers, offering support, resources, and training programs.
- Join Badge of Life in promoting officer well-being
- Stay Safe Foundation
- As a smaller charity, we might be last on this list, but our mission is no less vital. We’re dedicated to supporting officers and their families, emphasizing the importance of community and mental well-being. We offer a free book for police officers at www.lessonsincadence.com. Supporters can also purchase the book, which helps fund our ability to distribute it for free.
- Support Stay Safe Foundation and our mission
The stark reality is that every year, numerous law enforcement officers lose their lives in the line of duty, while many more struggle with mental health issues, including PTSD and depression. Alarmingly, suicide rates among officers are on the rise, underscoring the urgent need for support.
As someone who has served in law enforcement and currently holds a position in the military reserves, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges our officers face. It’s always a great time to rally behind them, offering our support and gratitude.
If you’re considering donating or supporting a cause, remember our unsung heroes in blue. Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in the life of an officer and their family.
About Eric Basek
Eric is the co-founder of Stay Safe Foundation, a former law enforcement officer and a current Coast Guard reservist. He is the author of “Lessons in Cadence,” and is passionate about helping people better themselves through fitness. Eric is our director’s husband, and dad to Logan and their dog Rajah. They live in Florida.