The Military Friends Foundation on Monday announced that it is launching the COVID-19 Massachusetts Military Family Relief Fund with a $100,000 pledge.
The fund will give immediate financial support to Massachusetts military families and families of fallen service members through a collaboration with the state’s Department of Veterans’ Services and the Massachusetts National Guard.
The fund initially will provide grants for essential financial help so that families will be able to quickly buy groceries, health supplies and other necessities in their own communities. It also will provide funds to buy personal protective equipment for service members.
The foundation, a Boston-based not-for-profit, hopes to match its donation with $100,000 from the public to help meet these needs, and 100% of donations will go to provide relief to those left vulnerable by the pandemic.
“With the COVID-19 health crisis sweeping across the nation, we are aware of the enormous challenges our service members and their families will face in the coming weeks and months,” said Executive Director Sarah Sweeney, an Army wife. “During this pandemic, our warriors are standing on the frontlines fighting this medical war. Our mission is to stand up and support them.”
Gov. Charlie Baker has activated the National Guard to provide critical community support during the pandemic, including transporting supplies and setting up medical sites for screening and care
“Thousands more stand by, ready for activation,” said Brig. Gen. Frank Magurn of the Massachusetts National Guard. “Many of these soldiers and airmen, as members of the broad and diverse workforce in Massachusetts, are feeling the impact of layoffs and business closures on their family income. This fund will provide meaningful support as they prepare to respond to the needs of the Commonwealth.”
Military families are facing some unique challenges due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Pentagon has halted official travel, including permanent change of station moves, leaving some families to pay for two households.
Even before this crisis, military spouses faced a national unemployment rate of more than 18 percent. Like many other people, military families also are confronted with the daunting challenge of school and day care closures, which can create barriers to adequate food supplies.
The fund is open to active military, National Guard, reserves and families of fallen service members who live in Massachusetts. To apply or to donate, visit www.militaryfriends.org/covid-19-massachusetts-military-family-relief-fund or call 1-84-HELP-VETS. Donations also may be sent to COVID MA Military Relief Fund, c/o Military Friends Foundation, 6 Beacon St., Suite 200, Boston, MA, 02108.
