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Lake City, FL | January 9, 2026

Living Hope, Inc. announced today it has received a $5,000 grant from First Federal Foundation to support the organization’s First Things First initiative, which provides critical mental health and wellness services to first responders, military veterans, and their families throughout North Central Florida.

The grant, awarded on January 5, 2026, will enable Living Hope to expand outreach services and activities that address the mental, emotional, and physical well-being of those who serve our communities. First Things First offers training and group presentations, wellness coaching and meetings, and education and prevention programs specifically designed for the unique challenges faced by first responders and military families.

“We are deeply grateful to First Federal Bank for their investment in the mental health and wellness of our first responders and veterans,” said Natalie Moore, LMHC and Executive Director of Living Hope, Inc. “This grant will strengthen our ability to reach more of those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities. Through First Things First, we’re committed to ensuring that our heroes and their families have access to the support and resources they need to thrive.”

Living Hope serves active and former first responders, law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS and medical personnel, dispatch and communications professionals, probation and corrections officers, military members and veterans, and their families across 12 counties in North Central Florida, including Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Suwannee, and Taylor Counties.

The organization addresses critical community needs related to trauma, mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence through partnerships with schools, faith communities, other non-profits, community leaders, and mental health specialists. In addition to First Things First, Living Hope operates Project COPE, trauma support groups, and various workshops and training sessions.

First responders, military members, veterans, and their families interested in learning more about First Things First services can contact Barbara Etter at barbara@livinghope1.com.