How is PROJECT: VetRelief connected to The American Legion?
The American Legion, Department of Florida launched the PROJECT: VetRelief initiative in 2014 as a way to provide relief to our service members and their families. The American Legion, Department of Florida is the Premier Sponsor of PROJECT: VetRelief and, as such, provides all administrative, volunteer, and advocacy support at no charge to the program.
What does PROJECT: VetRelief do?
PROJECT: VetRelief provides assistance to active duty, our veterans, and their families in the form of funds (Emergency Assistance), experience (Benefits Support), and encouragement (Community Engagement).
Who is eligible to receive assistance?
Support is available for active duty military and veterans (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, National Guard, and Reservists) in addition to immediate family members of our service members (spouse or child).
For Emergency Assistance, service members must be classified as having an honorable discharge or honorable separation (see “I have a dishonorable discharge, what can I do”).
Does it cost anything to apply for or receive assistance?
No. All services provided by PROJECT: VetRelief are at no cost to those served.
Do I have to be a member of The American Legion, Auxiliary, or Sons of The American Legion to receive help?
No.
I have a dishonorable discharge, what can I do?
VetRelief Advocates may still be able to assist in requests to recharaterize your discharge. Contact Us to learn more.
How can PROJECT: VetRelief help in an emergency?
Emergency Assistance funding is provided to offset necessities for shelter, food, utilities, transportation, and health experiences. Fill out an Emergency Assistance Request or Contact Us to confirm your eligibility.
How long does it take to receive Emergency Assistance?
Upon receipt of an Emergency Assistance Request, the PROJECT: VetRelief Coordinator will promptly contact the applicant to confirm receipt, clarify anything from the application that may be unclear, request additional information if needed, and provide an initial assessment of eligibility (this DOES NOT constitute a guarantee of funding). Assistance is then usually awarded within 7 business days. This will vary on a case-by-case basis.
How can PROJECT: VetRelief help with benefits?
We assess available benefits and can then help prepare claims for disability, compensation, hospitalization, naturalization, education/vocational training, etc. We can also set up and attend appointments for benefits, make calls, conduct follow-ups, and provide referrals. Fill out the Benefits Support Request or Contact Us.
I feel isolated, can PROJECT: VetRelief help?
Having a support system counteracts isolation. We are a community of veterans helping veterans, which gives us a unique understanding of the challenges our service men and women face. You are not alone. Contact Us.
How can I request assistance?
Fill out an Emergency Assistance Request, Benefits Support Request, or Contact Us with questions.
How can I contribute to the mission of PROJECT: VetRelief?
Opportunities to invest in the lives of our service members and their families exist in the form of financial contributions (Individual Donations or Corporate Sponsorships) and through the giving of your time as a member of The American Legion or by becoming a VetRelief Advocate.
What is a VetRelief Advocate?
VetRelief Advocates are volunteers who are trained to assist during a financial emergency, provide guidance on benefits, and offer encouragement through mentorship.
When I donate to PROJECT: VetRelief, where does my money go?
The money you donate stays right here in Florida to provide active duty, our veterans, and their families the opportunity to live successful and thriving civilian lives. We are committed to being good stewards of the funding we receive. Learn more about Our Method.
