As the 2024 hurricane season intensifies and communities face the aftermath of severe flooding, The MOAA Foundation is stepping up to support those in need. The Crisis Relief Program, established to help protect individuals and families experiencing unexpected crises from facing insurmountable financial hardship, is accepting applications from eligible individuals and families affected by recent natural disasters.

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“The MOAA Foundation's Crisis Relief Program can provide critical financial assistance during trying times. We want the entire uniformed service community to know we are here if you need us,” said Amanda Centers, MOAA vice president of Development. “For those fortunate enough to be unaffected, please consider making a donation to help support this vital program.”

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South Carolina National Guard engineers work after dark supporting Greenville County agencies in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. (Courtesy photo via National Guard)

Who Is Eligible

The MOAA Foundation’s Crisis Relief Program offers financial assistance to members of the following groups who are experiencing a financial setback due to a current crisis:

• Currently serving military personnel (including National Guard and Reserve)
• Spouses of currently serving personnel
• Veterans
• Surviving spouses
• Military and veteran caregivers

The program is open to all ranks and U.S. uniformed services.

[MILITARY TIMES: Thousands of National Guard Troops Deploy for Hurricane Helene Relief | STARS AND STRIPES: At Least 2 Military Bases Closed Through Friday to Recover From Hurricane Helene]

How We Can Help

The Crisis Relief Program can provide up to $1,000 in financial assistance for:

• Housing (rent, mortgage, housing assistance, repairs, groceries, etc.)
• Auto loan/lease/car repair
• Utilities (electric, water, heat, internet/cable, cellphone)
• Bills, including credit card, medical, and insurance

Note: Legal fees or child support payments are not covered.

Due to limited funding, the program focuses on unique crisis situations or FEMA-related disasters. Applications must be submitted within one year of the disaster and recipients must upload proof of how the grant funds were used within 30 days of receiving the grant.

Learn more at the MOAA Charities website.