Despite government shutdown delaying disaster declarations, those affected are encouraged to prepare NEF grant applications.
Although the government shutdown means FEMA is not currently designating any natural disasters, American Legion posts and Legionnaires impacted by those events are encouraged to still apply for National Emergency Fund (NEF) grants.
Grants of up to $3,000 for Legionnaires and $10,000 for Legion posts are available through the NEF. Individuals must have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage from a declared natural disaster. Post grants must derive from a declared natural disaster causing damage to the post building and restricting use of the facility for programs.
Application forms and further information are available at https://www.legion.org/get-involved/community-programs/national-emergency-fund/request-assistance.
NEF does not provide for repairs or replacement of lost or damaged items in the primary home of residence. If the destroyed property is owned by the member, but he/she does not physically live there, that is not covered. Vehicles or outbuildings are not covered. If the home is rented, renters insurance paperwork should be provided, if any.
For American Legion posts, the only things covered are for post programs that might sustain losses pertaining to the intent of the four pillars of The American Legion. Losses from the social quarters and/or restaurant of the post are not covered. A copy of the most recent Consolidated Post Report (CPR) needs to be attached.
The American Legion’s Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) Program is also ready to assist active duty servicemembers and American Legion members with minor children in the home (18 or younger) who need financial help to pay for shelter, food, utilities and medical expenses. For more information, go to https://www.legion.org/get-involved/community-programs/temporary-financial-assistance.
- Emergency