National Emergency Fund assistance will be available for those impacted by declared natural disasters.
As Hurricane Helene threatens the southeastern United States, Legion Family members in those states are reminded to be safe — and to be ready to seek relief from The American Legion’s National Emergency Fund (NEF).
The National Hurricane Center (NHC) expects Helene to become a Category 4 hurricane before making landfall on Florida’s Big Bend coast Thursday night.
“Weakening is expected after landfall, but Helene’s fast forward speed will allow strong, damaging winds, especially in gusts, to penetrate well inland across the southeastern United States, including over the higher terrain of the southern Appalachians,” the NHC said. Residents in the areas covered by hurricane, tropical storm and storm surge warnings were urged to quickly complete preparations to protect life and property.
Governors in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia have declared states of emergency.
National Emergency Fund
If you’ve been impacted by a natural disaster, you may be eligible for assistance.
The NEF provides up to $3,000 for qualified Legionnaires or Sons of The American Legion, and up to $10,000 for qualified American Legion posts which have been affected by declared natural disasters.
To be eligible for an individual grant, the Legionnaire or Son:
1. Must have been displaced from their primary residence due to damage sustained during a declared natural disaster.
2. Must provide copies of receipts of items required to meet immediate needs, such as housing, food, water, clothing, etc., during the period immediately following the disaster.
3. Must be an active member at the time of the disaster and the time of application.
The American Legion has created a presentation which discusses details on the NEF grant, including what the NEF covers and does not cover and how to complete the NEF application. Click here to view that presentation. And click here for NEF brochures and a preparation guide.
Please note that the national American Legion website is undergoing upgrades and previous links, including Legion.org/Emergency, may not be functioning immediately.
- News