We will begin printing and sorting the BRPBA 2026 raffle soon. If you do not want to be included in the raffle, please let us know. And of course, if you want to be included and have not in the past, please also let us know. Just drop a note to BRPBAoffice@gmail.com. 

The history of the Distress Fund goes way back. At a general meeting of the BRPBA on June 18, 2003, we received information that one of our members, after being retired for several years, had suffered a stroke and needed a wheelchair ramp. However, due to financial difficulties, he was unable to have one built.  This information came from another member because the disabled member that needed help was too proud to ask for it. After a Baltimore Police Officer retires, they can no longer get help from the Signal 13 Foundation.  

Therefore, at the June 18, 2003 meeting, this member's financial situation was discussed, a hat was passed around, and $524.00 was collected.  One of our retired members generously offered to build the wheelchair ramp at no cost.  In addition, Home Depot was approached and graciously helped with the cost of the material.  

However, the BRPBA Distress Fund was not formally started and named until 2004, when it was realized that we had other members and widows who, for whatever reasons, were struggling to make ends meet. Whether they needed help with medical bills, medical equipment, or a personal financial crisis, they were hurting and needed a helping hand.

As of February 2026, we have had one hundred and sixty (160) requests for assistance. The Distress Fund is funded entirely through our yearly Raffle, and donations made by you, our members.

Many of our members, their family, and friends are fortunate enough to not be in this position. The BRPBA Distress Fund would be honored if those fortunate members would remember us and our members needs.  A few have remembered us in their wills; some have remembered us in their passing by having donations made to the BRPBA Distress Fund in lieu of flowers, while others have graciously sent donations. 

In whatever way you may find to honor us, we are appreciative and thank you for your generosity. Those you have helped over the years thank you also.  As we are members, so are we family.

The 2026 prizes are as follows:

4 $50.00 winners  

19 $100.00 winners   

4 $200.00 winners, 

3 $300.00 winners  

1 $400.00 winner   

4 $500.00 winners.

Best of luck to you. 

Daryl