Firefighters Crossing Borders Org is a United States-based nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting firefighters in Mexico by providing advanced training, equipment, and vehicles. Established in 2000 by firefighter Joel Schwarz from Gig Harbor, Washington, the organization was born out of a mission to improve the safety and operational capabilities of Mexican firefighting departments that lacked adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) and resources[1][3].

History

The inception of Firefighters Crossing Borders (FFCB) began during Joel Schwarz's visit to Mexico, where he observed the dire state of firefighting equipment and services. Motivated to assist, Schwarz returned to the U.S. with fellow firefighters from Gig Harbor to collect and deliver used turnout gear, self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs), helmets, and boots that were no longer in use but still functional. Alongside equipment donations, the team provided operational training to Mexican firefighters and medical workers, emphasizing the organization's core philosophy of firefighters helping their brothers and sisters across borders[3].

Since its founding, FFCB has expanded its reach beyond its original mission, developing relationships with fire departments and emergency services throughout Mexico and globally, including regions such as Haiti, Japan, South America, and Europe. The primary focus remains on states like Baja California, Sinaloa, Nayarit, and Jalisco, where the need for resources and training is most acute[1][3].

Mission and Operations

Firefighters Crossing Borders functions as a volunteer-driven organization consisting mainly of active and retired firefighters from the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Its mission centers on delivering critical firefighting equipment and providing advanced training to departments seeking assistance in Mexico. The organization also facilitates the establishment of sister city relationships between U.S. and Mexican communities to foster economic and cultural support networks that enhance firefighting cooperation[1][2].

When a Mexican fire department requests help, FFCB first determines if the department has a sister city in the U.S. If such a partnership exists, FFCB supports this relationship until the departments can independently collaborate. If no sister city is involved, FFCB may directly provide ongoing assistance, depending on available resources. The organization prefers working with lead departments, equipping and training them to serve as regional hubs that can then train smaller, neighboring departments to maximize the impact of their support[2].

FFCB's model includes the collection and shipment of equipment that is no longer usable in the U.S. but remains effective for firefighting operations in Mexico, ensuring sustainability and extending the life of valuable resources. They maintain an instructor network comprising firefighters and specialists from across North America to deliver training relevant to the needs of partner departments[3].

Funding and Financials

As a registered nonprofit organization with EIN 33-1148556, Firefighters Crossing Borders relies on donations and volunteer support to carry out its mission. According to available financial summaries, the organization manages modest revenue and expenses, indicative of its volunteer-based structure and focused operational scope[4].

Firefighters Crossing Borders Org exemplifies cross-border solidarity in emergency response, leveraging firefighter expertise and donated equipment from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico to improve firefighting capacity and safety in underserved regions. Their efforts reflect a commitment to global firefighter cooperation and resource sharing to enhance life-saving capabilities beyond national boundaries[1][3].