UTICA, N.Y. (WKTV) — Gov. Kathy Hochul addressed attendees at the annual Firefighters Association of the State of New York convention, emphasizing her commitment to supporting the mental health of volunteer firefighters across the State.
Speaking to a large crowd on Thursday, Hochul highlighted the mental health challenges faced by first responders, acknowledging the significant toll their work can take.
“The mental toll that it takes on people. I acknowledge this. I have seen mental health challenges from people in uniform, whether in law enforcement, firefighting service, and many others,” Hochul said.
“First responders who see humanity at its worst sometimes, and they’re also humans. And for us to finally acknowledge that we need to be providing mental health support for people who ask for it and remove the stigma associated with it,” she added.
FASNY’s mission is to educate, serve and support volunteer firefighters throughout New York.
The convention, held on Long Island this year, is scheduled to return to the same location next year.
In other State firefighter news, Hochul announced the safe return of 13 New York wildland firefighters after assignments in Colorado, Utah and Washington.
Gov. Kathy Hochul addressed attendees at the annual Firefighters Association of the State of New York convention, emphasizing her commitment to supporting the mental health of volunteer firefighters across the State.