Rockin 4 Relief event raises thousands for first responders and their families
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Rockin 4 Relief raised thousands of dollars for first responders and their families over the weekend.
On Saturday, October 12, community members near and far attended an event at Primo Vino and Cask in Cape Girardeau for an evening of fun, supporting families of first responders injured or killed in the line of duty. The event included food trucks, drinks, games, and live music from Old Cape Road.
This event was sponsored by Cook, Barkett, Ponder and Wolz. They proudly announced today, October 18, 2024, that the Rockin’ 4 Relief event in Cape Girardeau raised over $25,000, in funds including in-kind donations and a $13,000 cash donation will be awarded to the cause.
According to the 2024 Mid-Year Preliminary Law Enforcement Officers Fatalities Report, released by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund there’s been a 15% increase in line of duty deaths. This report doesn’t even include officers that were seriously injured and other first responders in the field.
Showing that statistics show a growing issue of first responders being seriously injured or harmed in the line of duty.
When first responders are hurt or killed on the job their families are left to pick up the pieces.
Often times while grieving they are left with financial uncertainty.
The Rockin 4 Relief event raises money to support families in these heartbreaking and stressful times.
Rockin 4 Relief was founded by Jennifer Rubin Evans when she was just 12 years old and is now a first responder.
The non-profit organization raises money for families of police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics when they need it most, including those catastrophically injured or killed in the line of duty.
In previous years, volunteers would rock in rocking chairs for up to 10 hours straight outside grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, and retail locations and collect donations from customers who come by.
Since 2009, Rockin’ 4 Relief has raised more than $287,000 including a $13,000 donation from Oprah Winfrey.
“This event is something our firm is honored to sponsor, and we look forward to attending every year,” said Attorney J. Michael Ponder. “It’s nice to see such a great turnout every year, supporting families of our bravest heroes when they need it most.”
For more information about Rockin’ 4 Relief, and how you can show your support to families of first responders injured or killed in the line of duty, visit https://www.rockin4relief.org/.
