The First Responder Blankets race in New Orleans is free to enter, making it an accessible option for runners visiting Louisiana on race weekend. The event takes place on April 28, 2026, with a 6:00 AM start time, giving you an early morning run before the day heats up. The race is based at 141 Allen Toussaint Boulevard in New Orleans. This running event supports first responders through its fundraising efforts, so you'll be contributing to a meaningful cause while getting your workout in during your trip to the city.
From the Race Organizer
The Guardian Quilts Program Our Mission: Wrapping Courage Around Our Littlest Heroes The Guardian Quilts Program is a heartfelt mission to bring comfort and a sense of "heroic protection" to children facing their toughest battles. We collect donated uniforms, shirts, and patches from the brave men and women of Police, Fire, and EMS services. Our dedicated team of volunteer seamstresses then meticulously transforms these symbols of service into soft, snuggable "Guardian Quilts." Our goal is ambitious but vital: to produce and deliver 1,000 quilts by September 1, 2026, for children in New Orleans hospitals and those recovering at home. How You Can Help Step 1: Scour Your Closets Do you have retired T-shirts, hats, or uniforms featuring an Emergency Service Logo? Instead of letting them sit in a box, let them provide a "hug" to a child in need. Step 2: Mail Your Donation Please send all donated items to: First Responder Blanket Program > PO Box #265 141 Allen Toussaint Blvd New Orleans, LA 70124 Step 3: Support the Craft In partnership with Team Pack A Lunch, your financial contributions go directly toward purchasing high-quality quilting materials. These funds allow our local volunteer seamstresses to turn your donated logos into beautiful, comforting blankets. Step 4: The Heroic Delivery This is where the magic happens. Once a Guardian Blanket is finished, local First Responders hand-deliver them to children in area hospitals. When a child wraps themselves in these quilts, they aren't just getting warm—they are feeling the protection and bravery of the men and women who keep our community safe every day. Make a Tax-Deductible Donation Your support changes lives. All donations are made to TEAM PACK A LUNCH (EIN# 39-3562040 ) and are tax-deductible in accordance with code section 170. Donate Online: Visit TEAMPACKALUNCH.ORG Donate by Check: Please make checks payable to Team Pack A Lunch (c/o First Responder Blanket Program) and mail to the address listed above. Together, we can ensure no child fights their battle alone. Help us wrap them in the strength of our community. Contact info: Ryan Mast 1-225-266-5493 firstresponderblanketsforkids@gmail.com Juan Diego VP of Adaptive Sports and Community Outreach Juan@teampackalunch.org Jay Couvillion teampackalunch.org jay.c@teampackalunch.org
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in New Orleans, LA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for April 28.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to New Orleans, LA.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is First Responder Blankets 2026 — New Orleans, LA?
First Responder Blankets 2026 — New Orleans, LA takes place on April 28, 2026. The race is held in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Where is First Responder Blankets 2026 — New Orleans, LA held?
First Responder Blankets 2026 — New Orleans, LA is held at PO Box #265 141 Allen Toussaint Blvd in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Where can I find hotels near First Responder Blankets 2026 — New Orleans, LA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in New Orleans. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
