The Dickey Foundation Supports First Responders with Lifesaving Grants Across the Nation

DALLAS, TX (November 21, 2024) – The Dickey Foundation has continued its mission to support and equip first responders, providing grants throughout November to enhance public safety and protect communities nationwide. These grants offer lifesaving tools and cutting-edge resources, leaving a lasting impact on the communities served:

1. Beckley Fire Department, WV: On November 12, 2024, the Beckley Fire Department received a $10,000 grant for Safariland Armor. This vital protective equipment helps shield paramedics and firefighters during active threat scenarios, ensuring their safety as they serve.

1. Henryville Volunteer Fire Department, TN: On November 13, 2024, the Henryville Volunteer Fire Department received a nearly $10,000 grant for essential rescue tools, including vehicle stabilization struts, battery-powered saws, and lights. These tools will significantly improve their emergency response capabilities and support lifesaving efforts.

1. Kennesaw Police Department, GA: The Kennesaw Police Department was presented with a nearly $10,000 grant on November 14, 2024, for a DJI Matrice M30T Drone. This advanced technology is designed to enhance search and rescue operations and bolster public safety efforts in their community.

1. Norman Fire Department, OK: A $10,000+ grant was presented to the Norman Police Department on November 18, 2024, for Safariland Tactical Helmets. This critical gear provides high-level protection for first responders facing dangerous and high-risk situations.

“Supporting our first responders means providing the tools they need to keep themselves and the public safe during life-threatening situations,” said Betsy Orton, Executive Director of The Dickey Foundation. “These grants are a reflection of our deep commitment to ensuring these brave individuals have access to the best possible resources.” Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey's Capital Group, added, “First responders are the backbone of our communities, and it’s our honor to give back to those who protect and serve with such courage and dedication. Our support aims to make their vital work safer and more effective.” “We stand proud as a part of these communities, recognizing the immeasurable value that first responders bring to all of us,” said Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. “By providing these grants, we not only honor their service but ensure they have what they need to come home safely.” The Dickey Foundation’s November grants demonstrate the ongoing effort to empower first responders, making a tangible impact through critical equipment and resources. To learn more about how The Dickey Foundation supports first responders or to inquire about a grant for your local heroes, please contact foundation@dickeys.com. The Dickey Foundation remains dedicated to serving those who serve us, continually investing in the safety, readiness, and wellbeing of first responders across the nation.

About The Dickey Foundation

The Dickey Foundation, formerly known as Barbecue, Boots & Badges, is the charitable arm of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. Dedicated to supporting first responders across the United States, the Foundation provides essential safety equipment, protective armor, rescue gear, and financial support to enhance the safety and well-being of those who risk their lives to protect their communities. By partnering with local franchisees and communities nationwide, The Dickey Foundation works tirelessly to ensure first responders have the tools and resources they need to keep us all safe. For more information or to get involved, visit thedickeyfoundation.org.

About Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants, Inc.

Founded in 1941 by The Dickey Family, Dickey's Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. is the world’s largest barbecue concept and continues as a third-generation family-run business. For over 80 years, Dickey’s Barbecue Pit has served millions with its signature Legit. Texas. Barbecue.™ Slow-smoked over hickory wood-burning pits, Dickey’s barbecued meats are paired with a variety of southern sides. Committed to authentic barbecue, Dickey’s never takes shortcuts—because real barbecue can’t be rushed.
With over 866 restaurants across eight concepts in the U.S. and several countries, Dickey’s Barbecue Franchise and Dickey’s Restaurant Brands continues to grow under the leadership of Roland Dickey, Jr., CEO of Dickey’s Capital Group, and Laura Rea Dickey, CEO of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Inc. Dickey’s has been recognized on Newsweek’s 2022 "America’s Favorite Restaurant Chains" list, Nation’s Restaurant News 2024 top fast-casual brands for value, and USA Today’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards. The brand has also ranked in the Top 20 of Fast Casual’s “Top 100 Movers and Shakers” for four of the past five years. Additional accolades include Entrepreneur's Top 500 Franchise and Hospitality Technology’s Industry Heroes list. The brand has been featured by Fox News, Forbes, Franchise Times, The Wall Street Journal, and People Magazine. For more information, visit www.dickeys.com. For information about becoming a franchise partner, visit www.dickeysfranchise.com