The outpouring of support from the Waltham community after her husband’s death remains vivid in Kristin Tracey’s memory.

A memorial of red and white flowers and blue ribbon with the wording “Hero” grew on top of Officer Paul Tracey’s cruiser the day after the fatal accident in December of 2023.

Community members lined the streets while Paul’s body was taken to the medical examiner’s office, with the family being escorted; and youngsters drawing pictures of Paul that still hang in the police department today.

“To see people come out like that, to support us, was absolutely amazing,” Kristin Tracey said. “I just struggle trying to find the words to say thank you.”

The Traceys have started a foundation in honor of Paul that awards $1,600 scholarships to two Waltham High School students pursuing law enforcement careers.

When Paul Tracey died, Kristin, Danike and Tyler also joined the ranks of another solemn family organization: the beneficiaries of The Hundred Club of Massachusetts.

Founded in 1959 by legendary Boston media executive and philanthropist Norman Knight, The Hundred Club provides immediate — often within 24 hours — and ongoing financial support and programming for the surviving spouses and children of police officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty.

“This organization’s mission could not be closer to my heart,” said Hundred Club Executive Director Tracie Hines. “My husband is a Lynn firefighter, and my family includes many in law enforcement, so I share a kinship and a deep understanding with our 100 Club members and the community.”

In 2025, the Hundred Club responded to the call 12 times, providing financial support to 12 more families in Massachusetts whose mother, father, brother, sister, son or daughter died in the line of duty.

Today, the Hundred Club’s active membership is aging, and the organization has launched an aggressive recruitment campaign to encourage police officers and firefighters — and anyone else interested in the mission — to join the Hundred Club. Active duty police officers and firefighters pay $100 per year in dues, and members of the public may join for a $250 or higher donation.

Hines recently appeared on a podcast hosted by Melrose Police Chief Kevin Faller called “Behind the Badge.” The episode focused on Melrose Police Officer Stephan Galvin, who died suddenly on July 16. The Hundred Club was there the next day with a check and a promise of ongoing support for Galvin’s family.

“The level of stress that came off her shoulders — I mean, I could hear it through the phone,” said Melrose Police Lieutenant Paul Norton on the chief’s podcast. “It was just amazing.”