The families of emergency responders who lose their loved ones while on the job, will now qualify for financial help from the federal government.
Moncton Firefighter Christopher Jackson says the National Community Heroes Benefit was officially implemented on April 1st, “The benefit is a one time, tax free and direct payment to the surviving family of firefighters, police, paramedics and other public safety officers who die in the line of duty.”
The Line of Duty Death benefit is $80 million over five years.
“We put our safety on the line everyday that we go on duty. I would hope this is something no family would have to use, but when we are doing a dangerous job, there are risks involved. There is the possibility of making that ultimate sacrifice, and if this helps a family after that happen financially, to feel some sort of stability, it’s a good thing.”.
(photo courtesy of Wade Perry)
