Beneficiaries
who we
Every dollar the Foundation raises reaches the same place: a Massachusetts fire fighter, a family behind one, or a program that keeps them safe.
SERVE
Support that follows the member home
The PFFM Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization serving the members of the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts and the families who stand behind them.
Occupational cancer remains the leading cause of death among fire fighters, and the cumulative weight of the job carries a behavioral health cost that rarely stays at the station. Our beneficiaries are the people carrying both.
Beneficiary Groups
Active Fire Fighters
Career members of the 12,000-strong PFFM facing occupational illness, injury, or sudden hardship. Support ranges from emergency financial grants to treatment navigation.
- Emergency hardship grants
- Cancer treatment navigation
- Peer support access
Families & Survivors
Spouses, children, and dependents — especially the families of members lost in the line of duty. The Foundation stays with these families long after the funeral detail stands down.
- LODD survivor support
- Educational scholarships
- Long-term family outreach
Retired Members
Members whose occupational exposure follows them into retirement, when department resources fall away and medical costs do not.
- Post-service care support
- Screening & early detection
- Benefit guidance
Locals & Departments
Affiliated locals building their own wellness, screening, and safety programs, with Foundation funding used to expand local access statewide.
- Program grants
- Equipment & technology
- Training partnerships
Current Beneficiary
Mike Penney Shrewsbury Firefighters Association, Local 4613
Mike Penney is 36 years old and has been a member of the Shrewsbury Firefighters Association, Local 4613, for over six and a half years. Due to a sudden and severe illness, Mike recently underwent surgery that resulted in the amputation of his leg.
Mike has dedicated his life to helping the public and is always the first to help his brother and sister firefighters and those he loves. Mike’s wife, Amy, and their three children, ages 1, 5, and 7, face a long road ahead as they support Mike through his recovery and adjust to their new normal.
Funds raised will help support Mike and his family throughout his ongoing rehabilitation and recovery.
Current Beneficiary
Marshfield Local 2568 - Captain Billy Shields
On August 15, our community lost Captain Billy Shields of the Marshfield Fire Department — a father and a friend who spent his career serving and protecting the town he loved. He passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind his life partner of 24 years, Courtney, and their 13-year-old daughter Brooklyn.
Billy was a steady presence to so many of us, and his loss has been felt throughout Marshfield. As Courtney and Brooklyn begin to navigate life without him, they’re also facing a difficult financial reality. This fund will help cover immediate and ongoing expenses — funeral arrangements, daily living costs, and the bills that don’t pause for grief.
Marshfield has always shown up for the people who show up for us. Billy spent his career answering the call for this town. Now it’s our turn to answer for his family. Every contribution, and every share, means the world to Courtney and Brooklyn right now. Thank you for loving them alongside us.
Boston Local 718 - Bobby "BK" Kilduff Jr.
Campaign is over but raised over $150,000 for his family.
Chelmsford Local 1839 - FF Nick Spinale
Campaign is over but raised over $180,000 for his family.
