We support first responders, families impacted by anoxic brain injury, & members of the community. The 216 Foundation was created to honor the beautiful legacy of Jeff Brantley. Jeff served as a peace officer for nearly thirty years, proudly wearing badge number 216 with integrity, courage, and compassion. His life was anchored in a deep faith in Jesus, and everything he did reflected that devotio
n. As much as he loved serving his community, nothing brought him more joy than being a father. With six children, his home was always busy, loud, and full of love—and he cherished every moment of it. Christmas was Jeff’s favorite time of year. He delighted in surprising his kids with gifts and seeing their faces light up, but he also made sure they understood how blessed they were. Every Christmas, after reading the story of Jesus’ birth, he would smile and tell his children that he had thought about giving all their presents to a family in need instead. Of course, he never actually did—his love for his kids was far too big. But the idea stuck with us, because it captured the heart of who he was: generous, thoughtful, and always thinking of others. In May 2014, our beloved father suffered an anoxic brain injury that required constant and tender care from his devoted wife, Eden. After five years of courage, love, and sacrifice, Jeff passed away in 2019 at the age of fifty-six. That Christmas was painfully quiet without his laugh, his stories, and his joy. But in 2020, something beautiful happened. His daughter, together with his wife, decided it was time to fulfill the wish he had talked about for so many years. In partnership with the local police department, they found a family walking through a difficult season. That Christmas, instead of exchanging gifts with each other, the 216 family came together to lift up someone who truly needed love. The 216 Foundation was born from that moment. To honor Jeff’s faith, his family-centered heart, and his legacy of service, the Foundation seeks to bring hope and joy to families in need during the holidays, to support those living with anoxic brain injuries and to assist first responders and their families. Through every act of kindness, we carry forward the love he gave so freely.