Congressman Kean Launches First Responders Hometown Heroes Initiative

(May 20, 2026) LEBANON BOROUGH, NJ - Today, Congressman Tom Kean, Jr. (NJ-07) launched his First Responders Hometown Heroes initiative to recognize exceptional first responders serving communities across New Jersey's 7th Congressional District. This year, the annual initiative expands beyond law enforcement to include firefighters and EMS personnel for the first time.

"Every day, the brave men and women who serve as police officers, firefighters, and EMS personnel put themselves in harm's way for their neighbors, often without any recognition. The First Responders Hometown Heroes program is our way of changing that," said Congressman Kean. "I am excited to expand the initiative this year to honor individuals in all three branches of emergency response, because all of these first responders deserve to be celebrated by their communities."

This year, Congressman Kean invited nominations from police, fire, and EMS departments throughout the district to spotlight exemplary individuals. Each HometownHerowas selected by their department's own leadership for going above and beyond in the line of duty. Honorees will be recognized throughout the year for their dedication and service.

Since joining Congress, Kean has secured more than $14 million in federal funding to directly support first responders and public safety agencies across the district. During the 119^th Congress, he co-introduced the BUILD Act (H.R. 2979), bipartisan legislation to help small and rural public safety agencies modernize their facilities and access funding for recruitment, training, and emergency services.

To kick off the 2026 initiative, Congressman Kean recognized Officer Joanna Coppola of the Branchburg Township Police Department. View the social media post HERE.