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Community Corner

Ever Wonder What It Means

Ever been driving behind a car and notice a plaque or insignia on the bumper which read "100 Club"?  They are out driving around, not bringing a lot of attention, but it has a tremendous meaning to the owner of this symbol.  How many of you actually know what this 100 Club is and what it does?

It is one of the most unrecognized but the most well meaning organizations in the country.  The 100 Club was formed many years ago by some wealthy business people to show support for the families of fallen police officers and fire fighters who died in the line of duty.  There are now chapters in every State.

When a law enforcement officer or fire fighter is killed in the line of duty, the 100 Club provides financial support with funds received from its memberships, to surviving spouse and family.  This first support of $20,000 dollarss comes within the first 24 to 36 hours after a death occures.  This money is used by the family for any immediate needs and at their own discretion.  After some time passes the Clob will do a "needs assessment" of the family to determine what additional financial support is needed, such as paying down a debt, a mortgage and future educational costs for any children.

If the fallen are single and have no dependents the $20,000 dollars is given to the executor of that person's estate to again be used as needed.

I am sure the MA. chapter will be doing this same thing to these two fallen Boston Firemen.  Back in June 1972 the Boston FD lost 10 men at one fire and it almost broke the 100 Club financially, but they covered all families financial needs.  Like I mentioned there are 100 Club's in every State, so if you see that little emblem on the bumper of the car ahead of you, say thanks to yourself for that persons membership.  Just imagine how far that yearly fee of $100 goes and you never knew it even existed.  

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