WWP Commits $10 Million to Help Wounded Veterans During Pandemic
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., April 9, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) is committing $10 million to help meet the immediate needs of warriors who are in financial crisis due to the coronavirus pandemic. The veterans charity is asking companies and foundations to join the effort to support our nation's heroes by matching the $10 million commitment.
Starting immediately, WWP is reaching out to all its registered warriors to identify those who are in financial distress due to the loss of household income related to the coronavirus pandemic. Those unable to meet their needs for food or shelter can apply for emergency funds. Warriors who qualify will be granted $1,000 per household to help pay for groceries, utilities, rent or mortgage payments, and other essential expenses. This support, combined with our mental and physical health and wellness programs, will aid the most vulnerable veteran families in our community.
"These are unprecedented times, and we must do all we can to meet the immediate financial needs of wounded warriors and their families," said Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mike Linnington, WWP CEO. "Due to their injuries and service-connected disabilities, our nation's wounded and injured veterans are at great risk. Many are coping with a weakened immune system, increased isolation, and financial hardship. We will do all we can to help these warriors and their families through these immensely challenging times and offer opportunities of assistance for companies and foundations to match our commitment of $10 million so we can extend this help to more warriors in need. We cannot do this alone, as the pandemic is greater than any one organization's ability to meet the vast demand. We call on others to assist so we may help as many warriors and their families in crisis as possible in this difficult time."
Registered warriors are being asked to only apply for assistance if they absolutely need it because of financial hardships from COVID-19. It's important to note that not all warriors will qualify for this assistance, and others who do qualify will not receive funds once the funding is exhausted.
"We know we are not going to be able to give every warrior financial assistance," Linnington added. "Our goal is to do as much good as we can with the $10 million for those with the greatest need. If we can double the $10 million with the help of corporate partners and foundations, we can extend this aid. Additionally, if we are unable to provide direct financial aid, warriors can and should take advantage of the free Wounded Warrior Project programs focused on improving their mental, physical, and financial health."
WWP is actively engaging existing corporate partners with this effort, but more help is needed. If organizations that help veterans pay bills are interested in joining WWP in the $10 million match to aid veterans during this crisis should contact WWPCovidRelief@woundedwarriorproject.org.
About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers — helping them achieve their highest ambition. Learn more.
SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project
