Gov. DeSantis stops in Jacksonville to deliver relief payments to first responders as part of state

Jacksonville — Gov. Ron DeSantis traveled to Surfside, Jacksonville and Pensacola to distribute $1,000, one-time relief checks to Florida’s first responders.

Mayor Lenny Curry joined to the governor in Jacksonville to recognize the work of more than 190,000 sworn law enforcement officers, firefighters and EMTs across the state.

The governor said that he wanted to acknowledge those who wear a uniform and put themselves in harm’s way.

“First responders work every single day – no matter the conditions – to keep us safe,” he said. “That was perhaps never more apparent than during the last year and a half during the pandemic. I am proud to deliver these checks to show our immense gratitude for their service.”

Working with the Department of Economic Opportunity, $208 million was allocated to distribute the one-time payments. The legislation was signed in June.

“The Department is honored to assist Governor DeSantis as he continues to fulfill his commitment by providing relief payments to our states’ heroes, who make sacrifices daily to serve,” said Department of Economic Opportunity Secretary Dane Eagle. “I am honored we had the opportunity to take part in his important initiative.”

Florida’s First Lady Casey DeSantis was also present to express her thanks while recognizing the sacrifices made by all of the first responders.

Curry said that he appreciated the positive message that was sent to those who serve to keep the public safe.

“I want to thank Governor DeSantis for recognizing the critical role that our law enforcement have in our community,” he said. “Over the past year, the men and women of JSO have made countless sacrifices to keep the people of Jacksonville safe. I’m honored to join the governor to reward them with $1,000 bonuses.”

Sheriff Mike Williams praised the governor for his steadfast commitment to JSO law enforcement, especially through the challenges of the pandemic.

“With the support of our governor, we have all worked hard to make sure Jacksonville, and our great state of Florida, are safer than ever,” he said in a statement. “And while we are in no way out of the woods, I am confident that we can start to see a glimmer of light in the year ahead.”

Employers still have the opportunity to provide the Department of Economic Opportunity with a list of their eligible employees.

For more information contact PandemicFirstResponderPayments@deo.myflorida.com

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