10/11/2024
CVMA may also be doing stuff, but the below information is from VFW National Headquarters and has to do with physical and monetary donations to the victims and areas of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
----- Original Message -----
From: Marc Garduno [mailto:[email protected]]
To: "Marc Garduno"
Sent: Thu, 10 Oct 2024 16:03:38 +0000
Subject: Disaster Relief Update
Comrades,
Much in the same manner as Chief’s press release statement of gratitude yesterday, I also wish to express to you my sincerest thanks for the outpouring of support, both monetary and in-kind, to the people of western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee. It has truly been amazing to witness firsthand the way our organization rolled up its collective sleeves and mobilized to get things done. Having toured much of western Carolina’s devastation, I know it will be quite some time before things start to normalize. I’d like to provide you with the following update:
Many organizations and the VA have provided lists of material needs for the people affected by the devastation. Something that is typically overlooked is what I’d like for everyone to consider moving forward for the next few weeks. The people in these areas live in a high elevation region. The temperatures are falling quickly so it’s time to start sending warm clothes, knit caps, gloves, blankets and comforters. Also, I noticed plenty of baby formula arriving by the case load. What we’re forgetting to include are bottles too. Some families have lost everything or have been displaced from their homes. At a time when children are glued to video games and electronics, not much is available to help keep them entertained and their minds off the situation. Please consider sending toys, puzzles, simple sporting goods, coloring books and crayons.
I’ve had many calls regarding matching funds for donations. First, thank you for desiring to stretch donations as far as possible to help make a greater impact. While we do not have a formalized matching fund program at the National Headquarters, we do have a Council-Designated fund of National Headquarters assets specifically restricted to support our members when a national disaster occurs. We have utilized these funds from National HQ to support our first support package of $100k to Tennessee and North Carolina, and we will do everything we can to ensure our Departments have all the support they need to take care of veterans and their families in these areas.
What are the benefits of donating through the National HQ? First, you can donate with confidence knowing that your funds will be handled and accounted for properly by our professional finance and accounting team. We make sure 100% of the donations received go to support our Departments when a disaster occurs. Both the VFW and the VFW Foundation have earned a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, a national nonprofit watchdog group. The VFW Foundation also has a Platinum Transparency rating from Candid GuideStar, is certified Best in America by America’s Best Charities, is an approved CFC Charity, and it belongs to Military Families and Veterans Service Organizations of America. The VFW HQ works with affected Departments to determine their needs, then effectively and efficiently transfers necessary funds as required. Lastly, we require Departments to account for all funds through a reconciliation process to ensure these restricted funds are used pursuant to our Disaster Relief Policy.
Thank you all for all you’ve done in support of Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief efforts and for what you will continue to do in support of Hurricane Milton.
Marc Garduno
Quartermaster General
VFW National Headquarters
406 W. 34th Street
Kansas City, MO 64111
Direct: 816.968.1179
Fax: 816.968.1189
www.vfw.org
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As the largest and oldest war veterans service organization, we have a long and proven history of providing vital assistance and support to America's service members, veterans and their families. From fighting for veterans benefits on Capitol Hill, to financial grants, transition support and educati...
