By MES Dispatch staff
The Briefing
- • California firefighters and supporters launched a scholarship program through the OC Bomberos nonprofit to reduce financial barriers to fire and EMS careers.
- • The program has awarded more than 40 scholarships for academy and medical training to aspiring firefighters, EMTs and paramedics.
- • Organizers aim to help individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford training costs required for entry into public safety roles.
- • Scholarships cover training and certification costs that can pose obstacles for low-income applicants.
- • The initiative is part of broader efforts to increase access to and diversity in the fire and EMS workforce.
IRVINE, CA — California firefighters and community partners have launched a scholarship program designed to help aspiring fire and emergency medical service personnel afford the costs of training and certification, officials said.
The initiative, operated by the OC Bomberos nonprofit organization, has awarded more than 40 scholarships to support candidates pursuing firefighter and EMS academy enrollment, as well as necessary medical training.
Organizers said the program aims to reduce financial barriers for individuals who might otherwise be unable to enter the fire service due to the high cost of required education and certification. Scholarships are available to help cover fees associated with training, uniforms and other related expenses.
Founders of the nonprofit — many of whom have backgrounds in fire service — said they developed the program to broaden access and support diversity in recruitment by assisting low-income youth and adults seeking careers in fire and EMS.
The scholarship effort is supported by community fundraising events and donor contributions, organizers said, and recipients have come from a range of communities across the region.