BackStoppers
The BackStoppers, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization[1] founded in 1959.[2] The organization provides needed financial assistance to the spouses and dependent children of all police officers, firefighters and volunteer firefighters, and publicly-funded paramedics and EMTs who lose their lives or suffer a catastrohpic injury in the line of duty in 18 counties in Missouri and Illinois.[3]
Assistance The BackStoppers' assistance pays off all debt, assumes financial obligations such as mortgage payments, taxes, health and dental insurance, and helps with the costs of elementary, secondary, and college/vocational education.[4] In 2014, The BackStoppers provided $1,392,913 in assistance.[5]
Coverage Area The BackStoppers serves a total of 18 counties, 13 of which are in Missouri and 5 of which are in Illinois.[6] Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop C Counties Served: Cape Girardeau, Franklin, Jefferson, Lincoln, Perry, Pike, St. Charles, St. Francois, St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Ste. Genevieve, Warren, and Washington. Illinois State Police District 11 Counties Served: Bond, Clinton, Madison, Monroe, and St. Clair.[7]
References
Sources
- Christine Byers, Families of the fallen reflect on BackStoppers' legacy, 50 years, St. Louis Post-Dispatch November 25, 2009.
- Ann Rubin, Guns N' Hoses event raising money for Backstoppers charity, KSDK November 26, 2009.
- Anheuser-Busch, wholesalers give $83,000 to BackStoppers, St. Louis Business Journal November 23, 2009.