The past year and a half have been difficult for many, impacting first responders and communities across the country. As we continue to battle health crises and natural disasters, front-line heroes constantly expose themselves to dangerous situations, creating a need for updated lifesaving equipment.

Recognizing this need, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation® continues to be a valuable resource for first responders across the nation and recently provided a $5,854 grant to Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC). Established in 1954, LARC is a training center that provides support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

The funding will be applied toward the purchase of four automated external defibrillators (AEDs) which will be used to ensure greater lifesaving capabilities for first responders in the community.

“We are grateful to Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation and our local Firehouse Subs in Fort Myers for awarding us this grant,” said Angela Katz, LARC’s executive director. “By providing AEDs, we will be able to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest on our properties. Sudden cardiac arrest is among the leading causes of death in the United States. The average response time for first responders once 911 is called is 8 to 12 minutes. For each minute defibrillation is delayed, the odds of survival are reduced by approximately 10%, so having access to AED and knowing how to use them, is critical.”

During the most recent grant cycle, the Foundation awarded 126 grants to public safety organizations nationwide. The 126 grants totaling nearly $2.7 million were given to organizations in need of critical lifesaving equipment and resources.

To donate and learn more about Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, visit FirehouseSubsFoundation.org.

ABOUT LEE ASSOCIATION FOR REMARKABLE CITIZENS
The mission of Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC) is to empower and support individuals with disabilities and their families to achieve their full potential. Serving more than 300 individuals annually, ranging in ages from 14 to 78, LARC offers vocational training, community residential services, youth programs, and other community inclusion services. LARC’s main campus is located at 2570 Hanson Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901.

ABOUT FIREHOUSE SUBS PUBLIC SAFETY FOUNDATION
In 2005, the Firehouse Subs founders established the 501(c)(3), non-profit Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. The charity provides lifesaving equipment, prevention education, scholarships and continued education, and disaster relief for first responders and public safety organizations, as well as support for members of the military. Since inception, Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has awarded more than $62.5 million to hometown heroes in 49 states and Puerto Rico.

Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation is honored to be listed as a four-star nonprofit organization, the highest designation, by Charity Navigator. Charity Navigator is the nation’s largest and most-utilized evaluator of charities. Grant allocations are made possible thanks to the overwhelming support of Firehouse Subs restaurants and generous donors. More than 70% of the funds raised for the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation come from the generosity of Firehouse Subs guests and the restaurant brand. Please consider supporting a Firehouse Subs restaurant near you!