The BackStoppers is now assisting the family of Firefighter Rodney L. Heard of the St. Louis Fire Department who died in the line of duty on June 15, 2021 after battling COVID-19.
Firefighter Heard served nearly 23 years with the St. Louis Fire Department. He leaves behind his wife and adult children, one of whom serves with the St. Louis Fire Department.
Our hearts are with the loved ones of Firefighter Heard, the St. Louis Fire Department and the many lives he touched while dedicating his life to serve our community.
“This is a great loss to our community. We will never forget Firefighter Rodney Heard and we will honor his sacrifice. Our deepest thoughts and prayers are with all who loved and knew Firefighter Heard.” -Chief Ron Battelle, BackStoppers Executive Director
The BackStoppers assists approximately 80 families with 70 dependent children and has assisted over 170 families since 1959.
The BackStoppers’ assistance is immediate and ongoing. Following the death of a firefighter, his or her family receives a check for $10,000 to be used in whatever way they need.
Within a few weeks, our representatives meet with the surviving spouse to identify the family’s other financial obligations, eliminate the family’s debt, and provide ongoing support for education and other extraordinary expenses.
We recognize the tremendous sacrifices that public servants make every day when they go to work. We understand the burdens placed on surviving spouses and children when tragedies occur. We believe our community has an obligation to care for the loved ones of those who have protected us. We accept the responsibility to make that happen. Join us in our cause. Help us provide life-long support for families of fallen heroes by donating or joining online or by mail to the address below.
The BackStoppers, Inc.
PO Box 795168
Saint Louis, MO 63179-0700
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