By Police1 Staff
In communities across the nation, many have turned to GoFundMe’s centralized hub for first responders to support law enforcement officers facing financial challenges due to injuries, illnesses or loss of life. These fundraisers offer crucial assistance to officers and their families, whether they’re dealing with medical expenses, funeral costs for fallen first responders or hardships that come from being injured in the line of duty.
What is the GoFundMe centralized hub for first responders?
The GoFundMe centralized hub for first responders is a dedicated platform where users can find and contribute to verified fundraisers supporting police officers, firefighters, EMTs and their families. This hub ensures that donations are directed to legitimate campaigns aimed at providing assistance for medical expenses, recovery efforts, funeral costs and other hardships faced by first responders injured or lost in the line of duty. It serves as a trusted resource for communities to support those who serve and protect them.
How does GoFundMe work?
GoFundMe is a crowdfunding platform that allows individuals, organizations and communities to raise money for specific needs, such as medical bills or memorials. Fundraising for police organizations and individual officers typically includes a dedicated campaign page that shares the story behind the fundraiser, the financial goal and regular updates. Anyone can donate, and funds are transferred directly to the organizer or a designated beneficiary. To protect users, GoFundMe has a team of trust and safety specialists who review campaigns and work to prevent misuse.
What percentage of donations does GoFundMe take?
GoFundMe does not charge a platform fee in the United States, meaning nearly all donations go directly to the cause. However, a standard payment processing fee of 2.9% plus $0.30 per transaction is deducted. These fees help cover the cost of secure payment processing and allow the platform to maintain safety measures for fundraisers, including those in support of law enforcement.
How do I start a GoFundMe?
Starting a GoFundMe is simple and accessible. Organizers need to set up an account, share the campaign’s purpose, set a financial goal and provide relevant photos or videos. If you’re considering a GoFundMe for police officers or fallen first responders, ensure you have detailed information about the beneficiaries and the intended use of funds. Fundraisers created by official organizations, such as a police department, often provide direct assistance for officers and their families.
How do I choose a legitimate GoFundMe?
When selecting a GoFundMe campaign to support, particularly for causes like police department fundraisers, take steps to verify its legitimacy. First, look for campaigns organized by verified individuals or organizations, especially those with clear connections to the police community. Check for regular updates and specific information about how funds will be used. GoFundMe’s trust and safety specialists work to monitor the legitimacy of campaigns, but donors are also encouraged to verify details when possible.
By understanding how GoFundMe operates and carefully choosing where to donate, you can help provide vital assistance to law enforcement officers and their families during challenging times.
Law enforcement fundraisers on GoFundMe
“One of my officers, Detective 1st Grade Mike Rooney entered Yale New Haven hospital last week to have a tumor removed from his brain. Following the procedure Mike’s brain has unexpectedly endured a tremendous amount of swelling. He is currently in a coma and fighting the battle of his life. Mike is a warrior and will continue to fight.”
“As he faces this difficult battle, Officer Chester will be taking time off from work to undergo treatment. We are launching this GoFundMe to help ease the financial burden of his medical expenses and provide support to him and his family during this challenging time.”
“Park Ranger Kevin Grossheim was called to rescue a family in trouble in a boat on the rough waters of Namakan Lake along the US & Canadian Border in Voyageurs National Park on October 6, 2024. Funds raised will directly benefit the Grossheim family and this is the only family approved fundraising effort. Thank you for donating! #FOPStrong”
“This May, members of the Evesham Police Department are undertaking a powerful journey. We’ll be riding our bicycles all the way from New Jersey to Washington, D.C., in honor of the brave men and women who have given their lives in the line of duty. This event is about remembrance, respect, and raising awareness for the sacrifices made by fallen officers.”
“I am starting this fundraiser for a dear friend Sarah Brallier that lost her husband and father of her two girls unexpectedly yesterday (10/21/24). While Sarah is an extremely strong woman, there will be many hardships that arise as she navigates the months to come. These funds will ensure that Sarah and her girls can navigate those hardships a little easier.”
“We are heartbroken to announce the tragic loss of Sgt. Monica Mosley, who dedicated her life to serving and protecting her community. Monica leaves behind two children and grandchildren who are now facing an incredibly difficult journey without her.”
“Michael and Caitlyn helped so many people over the years in so many ways. We are asking that everyone keeps sharing the GoFundMe or reaching out to them directly to donate to her and Grayson to help them keep going and appreciate everyone who has donated and continues to donate.”
