What We’ve Funded

The generous support of individuals, private foundations, and corporations has enabled the Bellevue Fire Foundation to fund life-saving equipment, and community engagement and recognition programs. We couldn’t have done it without our donors.

Funded items include:

BALLISTIC GEAR – HELMETS AND VESTS

Bellevue Fire Foundation was formed in November of 2020 after some community leaders came together to purchase ballistic gear for our firefighters and paramedics. Security and safety considerations required the Bellevue Fire Department to be prepared to respond to protests. Putting out fires during escalating conditions and to gain access to patients while navigating volatile or chaotic scenes, ballistic gear is necessary for their protection and to save lives and property.

RESCUE JET SKIS

Operation Water Rescue 425 — a lifesaving new program made possible thanks to the Bacon Family Foundation and nearly 200 generous community donors.

Bellevue Fire Department previously responded to water rescues using paddleboards and basic tools. Today, they now have four state-of-the-art rescue jet skis equipped with flotation platforms, speed, and maneuverability — allowing firefighters to reach people in distress faster, farther, and more safely on both Lake Washington and Lake Sammamish.

    • WILDLANDS BRUSH TRUCK

    The Type 6 Wildlands Brush Truck was put into service on August 1, 2023 with a community celebration, just in time for wildfire season. Brush Truck 101 is the first of its kind joining the Bellevue Fire Department’s fleet of engines and ladder trucks.

    Thank you, Amazon, Bruce McCaw Family Foundation, and the many donors who gave so generously. Your gifts allowed us to purchase the brush truck and equip it with the necessary tools and equipment.

    • THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS

    Firefighters face life-threatening conditions in low-visibility environments like smoke-filled buildings and darkness. Thermal Imaging Cameras (TICS) are essential tools that allow firefighters to “see” heat signatures, enhancing visibility, safety, and efficiency.

    TICS will enhance firefighter safety, support life-saving rescues, and improve response efficiency, ensuring our teams are prepared to protect the community in every scenario. 38 cameras were funded.

    Thank you, Gary Sinise Foundation and other donors to ensure our firefighters are well-equipped with this critical tool.

    • WIRELESS HEARING PROTECTION HEADSETS

    Ensuring Clear Communication and Hearing Protection for Firefighters

    Firefighters face high risks of hearing loss from exposure to loud equipment and noisy emergency environments. Clear communication is vital for safety, yet traditional hearing protection can hinder it. Firefighters can perform safely and effectively during emergencies while reducing the risk of long-term hearing loss and costly treatment or claims.

    Thank you, Gary Sinise Foundation and other donors to ensure our firefighters’ hearing is protected.

    • COMPANY OFFICER LEADERSHIP ACADEMY (COLA)

    When the state dropped its officer leadership training program for fire departments due to budget cuts, Bellevue Fire decided it was best to bring it in-house and turned to the Bellevue Fire Foundation to fund its curriculum development an expenses for its first class.

    This comprehensive program focuses on leadership development, diversity and cultural competency training, tactical effectiveness, data analysis and performance management, supervisory practices, and other critical subjects to prepare an individual for their role as a leader and supervisor with the Bellevue Fire Department. The Company Officer Leadership Academy also supports the City of Bellevue’s core values of Innovation, Exceptional Public Service, and Commitment to Employees.

    Thank you, Amazon, for once again providing the funding for this crucial program that will produce Bellevue’s future generation of firefighter leaders.

    PEER CONNECT – A MENTAL HEALTH APP

    The job of a first responder takes an immeasurable toll on mental health. Years of exposure to trauma, high-stress decision-making, and the demands of shift work can lead to addiction, suicide, and family strain. Bellevue Fire Department has sustained a Peer Support Team for over 25 years, and has now expanded that support through PeerConnect, a confidential app accessible 24/7 to firefighters, retirees, and their families. PeerConnect streamlines access to vetted mental health, wellness, and resiliency resources while enhancing the efficiency of our Peer Support Team—breaking down barriers and stigma so our firefighters never face challenges alone.

    • RECOGNITION AND MORALE

    The Foundation hosts gatherings to recognize firefighters for their lifesaving heroism. Barbecue dinners for the whole crew are provided in recognition and appreciation for their service to the community every day.