Operation Homefront is one of the lesser-known service organizations that’s been quietly helping military families for years. This spectacular 501(c)(3) provides financial assistance to military families, helping them to pay bills, find homes and send their children to school. The organization even grants financial assistance for food, utilities and mortgage payments.
Help for wounded service members
The cost of living has skyrocketed in recent years and American families are budgeting carefully just to stay afloat. One thing’s for sure: anyone can stumble into economic hardship. Still, serving in the Armed Forces presents some unique financial challenges. Luckily, when it comes to the brave service members of America’s military, Operation Homefront has often picked up the slack.
For active service members wounded in the line of duty, Operation Homefront has stepped to the plate, helping to find them rent-free housing during their recovery. Veterans have also benefited from services when in need. In fact, the program has worked to put retired service members in transitional housing, helping them to get settled after coming home.
But what happens when short-term assistance isn’t enough? Transitioning out of the military can certainly provide life-long obstacles. But when you’ve risked your life for your country, housing insecurity shouldn’t be one of them. Fortunately, Operation Homefront awards a limited number of mortgage-free homes in various locations across the United States.
By the numbers
You may think this all sounds too good to be true, but Operation Homefront’s numbers speak for themselves. The organization has awarded 36 million dollars in critical financial assistance to veterans and active members over the last twenty years. This means that when bills came due and applicants couldn’t pay, Operation Homefront stepped in and covered the costs. As it relates to the children of service members, the organization has gifted 50 million dollars in school supplies, including backpacks, notebooks, pens and pencils. Over 700 families have moved into permanent housing, with 96 million dollars in home equity awarded to various service members. Finally, the organization has looked out for veterans and military families around the holiday season, providing nearly 147,000 holiday meals so far.
How it works
The program works because the people behind it understand the challenges involved in military service. The CEO himself served in the Unites States Air Force before deciding to join the organization. About 92% of the staff have either served or had a military spouse or family member. That means that Operation Homefront’s staff understand the military lifestyle and the challenges it faces.
Like many charities, Operation Homefront relies on donations from private parties, corporations, community sponsors, and special fundraising drives. Find out more about this remarkable resource here.
Speaking of charities, did you know Toys for Tots is almost 100 years old?