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The American Legion has speeded up its process to assist Legionnaires and Sons of the American Legion members who have been victimized by Hurricanes Ike or Gustav. Financial grants are available through the organization’s National Emergency Fund.
“Many of these people need immediate help,” said American Legion National Commander David K. Rehbein. “The American Legion stands ready to assist. I have directed that our NEF process grants of up to $500 as quickly as possible to those eligible. This money is intended to address their immediate lodging needs. They can also apply for an additional $1,000 of assistance in case they need more. If you have not been affected, The American Legion needs your monetary donations to the NEF so we can assist these veterans and their families who have already lost so much.”
To be eligible for special immediate assistance, Legionnaires or SAL members must have been current on their membership when the storm hit and they must reside in a county or parish that was mandatorily evacuated, even if they remained in place.
Those in need of immediate assistance can call toll free at (800) 588-3365 between 8 am and 4:15 p.m. Eastern time. Those who are not in dire need can apply through the regular procedure by downloading an application at www.legion.org/documents/legion/pdf/nefapplication_1007.pdf . American Legion posts that have been damaged by the storms are eligible for up to $5,000 of assistance.
Tax-deductible contributions can be sent to: The American Legion, National Emergency Fund, PO Box 6141, Indianapolis, IN 46206. They can also be made online at https://join.legion.org/NEF/donate/.
The American Legion created The National Emergency Fund in 1989, shortly after the devastation of Hurricane Hugo and a San Francisco earthquake. More than $6.5 million in grants have been awarded during the life of the fund.
“The NEF has already distributed more than $175,000 to recent victims of floods and tornadoes in the Midwest,” Rehbein said. “It is imperative for us to help our fellow Legionnaires and SAL members in their time of need. Hurricane season still is not over and our resources are not limitless. If you can give, please make a donation. If you are in need of NEF assistance, please allow us to help you.”
With a current membership of 2.6-million wartime veterans, The American Legion was founded in 1919 on the four pillars of a strong national security, veterans affairs, Americanism, and patriotic youth programs. Legionnaires work for the betterment of their communities through more than 14,000 posts across the nation.
