A place to talk with retired firefighters who understand the trauma of the job

This bench, beneath a tree in Orlando Veterans’ Memorial Park near Lake Baldwin, is where retired firefighters will meet any first responders who are going through struggles, just want to talk or are interested in getting more professional help. The project is called “The Bench 988.”

Scott Maxwell/TNS

ORLANDO, Fla. — Retired Orlando firefighters Joe McCluan and Chris DeMaagd created The Bench 988, a peer-support initiative that gives first responders a safe place to talk through the emotional toll of the job with others who understand it.

Centered around a bench in Orlando Veterans’ Memorial Park and complemented by weekly walks, the grassroots program offers confidential peer support and connects firefighters, EMS personnel and other first responders with professional mental health resources when needed.

The founders hope the effort helps reduce the stigma around seeking help and ultimately expands to communities across the country.

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