Omaha area first responders will have a new resource to help them deal with the trauma they face on the job.
The First Responder's Foundation is opening a new facility for police, firefighters and EMTs that will include a gym, therapy rooms and a cafe. The facility will offer mental and behavioral health services as well as a physical wellness program.
Allen Batschelet the First Responders Foundation CEO tells 6 News, "This is our wellness center for first responders and their families. It's sort of an all-inclusive mental health, behavioral health support to families, relationships, and physical wellness."
Marcus Ricks is an Omaha Firefighter. He knows the dangers first responders face all too well. He says there's a massive need for a place like this in the Omaha community.
"I see it, you know, on the front lines. We go out on calls and I can see fellow brothers and sisters become stressed out. I can see them tired. We go back to the station and guys have their heads down, there's definitely a need,” Ricks told 6 News.
The COVID-19 pandemic is adding another need for care in the community. "The first responder, spouse, father, mother is working and working their job as best as they can, but they might not be able to come home to their loved one because they are fearful of bringing COVID home. Some of them are visiting the through windows," Jason Workman, the foundation's Director of Behavioral Health says.
The First Responders Foundation is doing Zoom calls through the pandemic, but once restrictions loosen, they plan to open the gym near 107th and Burt to all first responders for the first time.
(Photo: 6 News)