Action Program (Killed in the Line of Duty)

Action Program – Our Fallen Heroes

Geographic Scope: Bergen County, NJ

Purpose: Provide death benefits and financial support to families of first responders fallen in the line of duty and to severely injured public servants.

Program History:

• Established as a core mission objective when the 200 Club was founded
• Created in response to the July 1, 1988 Hackersack Fire that killed five firefighters
• The Fallen Firefighters Fund raised over $75,000 after the 1988 tragedy
• Since 1988 and September 11, 2001, the program has awarded more than $500,000 in Death Benefits and other financial support

Eligibility:

• Families of first responders (law enforcement, fire, emergency medical services) who were killed in the line of duty
• Severely injured public servants

Notable Support:

• William Kresja was one of five firefighters killed in the 1988 Hackensack Fire; his wife Clara became an "Honorary Trustee" and remained with the organization for more than 30 years until her passing, exemplifying the Club's mission

Organization: The 200 Club of Bergen County is a tax-exempt public charity (Federal Tax ID #22-2630060)