Behind every donation is a local family we were able to help.
These are the officers, firefighters, students, and families the Jax Freebirds have supported through Heroes Classic, the Christmas Cup, and our annual scholarship fund. Together, we’ve raised over $135,000 to help local Jacksonville families. Read their stories below.
Officer Jessica “Jess” Kramer
As a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office police officer and new mother, Officer Jessica Kramer has dedicated her career to serving and protecting others. In 2026, her family faced an unimaginable challenge when Jess was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her diagnosis brought more than a medical battle — it created financial uncertainty, interrupted family plans, and required both Jess and her husband, Matt, to miss work while navigating treatment and recovery. Despite the fear and uncertainty, Jess has faced every obstacle with remarkable courage, leaning on her faith, her family, and the support of her community.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our commitment has helped ease the financial burden of Jess’s cancer journey by providing a specialized medical bed, mortgage assistance, uncovered medical procedures, prescription costs, and other unforeseen expenses resulting from lost income during treatment. Our support allows Jess and Matt to focus on what matters most — her healing and their family — while reminding them they are not facing this battle alone.
Officer Malik Daricaud
Officer Daricaud was critically injured during a follow-up investigation in 2023, sustaining a spinal cord injury that required nearly 400 days of intensive rehabilitation.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our donation assisted with ongoing medical and rehabilitation costs as Officer Daricaud continues his recovery and service in a support role — an embodiment of perseverance and courage.
Officer Jennifer “Jenny” Johnson
In February 2023, Officer Johnson was brutally assaulted while responding to a routine call, suffering severe facial fractures and traumatic injuries. Her courage and determination through recovery earned her the Purple Heart Medal.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our contribution supported medical care, rehabilitation, and family needs — ensuring Officer Johnson could focus on healing while surrounded by community support.
Officer Tim Stafford
Officer Tim Stafford dedicated over 30 years to law enforcement service. In June 2022, he was violently attacked while responding to a call, sustaining life-altering head and facial injuries that forced early retirement. Despite immense trauma, Officer Stafford chose forgiveness — publicly extending compassion to his attacker and becoming a symbol of grace and resilience within the Atlantic Beach community.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our donation helped offset medical expenses and supported his family during recovery and transition, honoring a lifetime of service with tangible support.
Engineer Jason “Woody” Woodruff
Jason Woodruff served Jacksonville for 11 years before losing his life to job-related brain cancer — officially recognized as a line-of-duty death. His passing left a profound void for his family and fellow firefighters.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our donation provided immediate family support and honored Jason’s legacy of service, compassion, and sacrifice.
William “Liam” Ander Mroz Mathews
Liam Mathews was a beloved student-athlete whose life was tragically cut short in 2024. Known for his faith, leadership, and sportsmanship, Liam left a lasting mark on his school and community.
Jax Freebirds Impact: We established an annual scholarship in Liam’s name, ensuring his legacy continues by supporting future student-athletes who reflect his values.
Ben & Lauren Gatewood
In 2025, the Gatewood family lost their home in a devastating fire caused by a recalled vehicle. With an infant and a medically vulnerable family member, they were left with nothing but the clothes they wore.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our donation helped provide immediate necessities — housing, clothing, food — during an overwhelming and uncertain recovery period.
Officer Adam “A.C.” Gaulding
Shot during a traffic stop in 2025, Officer Gaulding’s actions prevented further violence and protected the public.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our support assisted with medical recovery and reinforced our commitment to first responders injured while serving others.
Fire Engineer Chris Knoff
Chris Knoff has endured a decade-long battle with a rare kidney disease, including three transplants and ongoing dialysis, all while serving his community as a firefighter.
Jax Freebirds Impact: Our donation helped offset lost income, medical costs, and daily living expenses — allowing Chris and his family to focus on health and new parenthood.