help us provide essential equipment to first responders and

Every day, Missouri’s first responders step into uncertainty with one goal in mind: to protect the lives of others. They run toward danger, stand guard through the night, and serve communities that rely on them in their most critical moments. Yet many departments across our state continue to face tight budgets, outdated equipment, and gaps in essential protective gear.

The Boots & Vests for Heroes Program was created to meet this need head-on.

Through this initiative, The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation provides high-quality duty boots and life-saving ballistic vests to first responders who cannot obtain them through their department or whose gear is worn, expired, or unsafe. What may seem like “just a pair of boots” or “just a vest” becomes a lifeline — empowering responders to work safely, confidently, and effectively in service to their communities.

This program is more than equipment.
It is a commitment to honor the sacrifice of those who protect us, uphold their safety, and stand beside them in moments when resources fall short.

When compassionate donors join us in this mission, the impact is immediate and measurable. Each contribution directly equips Missouri firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, and other first responders with the tools they need to return home safely at the end of each shift.

Together, we can make sure every hero who steps forward to protect our communities has the protection they deserve.

In every Missouri community, first responders stand ready to protect and serve — often without knowing what each day will bring. When crisis strikes a first responder or their family, The Chief Mason Griffith Foundation steps in to help bridge the gap. But the needs are growing, and many of the hardships we respond to happen without warning.

That is why we created Partners in Hope, our monthly giving program that sustains the heart of our mission.

Partners in Hope are individuals, families, and small businesses who choose to make a steady, meaningful impact by giving a modest monthly gift. This dependable support allows the Foundation to respond instantly when a first responder is injured, a family loses income unexpectedly, a line-of-duty tragedy occurs, or when urgent assistance — financial, emotional, or practical — is the difference between stability and crisis.

Monthly contributions may seem small on their own, but together they form a powerful lifeline. They ensure scholarships can continue, emergency aid can be delivered quickly, training and equipment programs can grow, and that Missouri’s heroes never stand alone in their most difficult moments.

Becoming a Partner in Hope means more than donating.
It means joining a community of people who believe in service, compassion, and honoring the sacrifices of those who protect us. It means creating lasting impact — one month at a time.

Hope is powerful. When shared, it becomes unstoppable.
Will you join us in building a stronger, safer future for Missouri’s first responders?

When a Missouri first responder or their immediate family faces a sudden crisis — an unexpected medical emergency, an on- or off-duty injury, a loss of income, or a life-altering event — the need for support is immediate. The emotional and financial impact can become overwhelming in an instant, leaving families unsure where to turn.

The First Responder Assistance Program (FRAP) exists for these critical moments.

This program provides rapid, short-term financial assistance to stabilize first responder families during times of urgent need. Each request is handled with confidentiality and compassion, ensuring help is delivered quickly and respectfully. FRAP bridges the gap so families can keep their lights on, stay in their homes, secure essential medical care, or endure a sudden hardship without facing it alone.

FRAP is emergency-driven.
Your support becomes an instant lifeline — one that can keep a family afloat during their darkest and most uncertain days.