A national nonprofit has launched a financial assistance program to help military and veteran caregivers cover unexpected expenses. The Bob & Dolores Hope Foundation provided a $500,000 gift to the Elizabeth Dole Foundation to launch The Hope Fund for Critical Financial Assistance.
The organization wants to fill a gap for veteran caregivers. For one, the caregiver is the one who benefits from the grant instead of the veteran or service member. Caregivers do not have to be part of the VA’s Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers program or any VA caregiver support program to apply for The Hope Fund. Moreover, the program is open to all caregivers of all veterans.
There are no limits on the amount a caregiver can apply for, it depends on their expenses. The deadline is Dec. 31 at midnight, EST, and funds come on a first-come, first-serve basis. To be eligible, applicants must provide care for a wounded, ill, or injured veteran or service member and must submit their proof of service, such as their DD214 or VA benefits letter. Another criterion is The Hope Fund will pay the vendor, not the caregiver, so applicants must provide the organization with an invoice receipt.
In addition to financial assistance for caregivers, The Hope Fund would also provide additional support such as employment opportunities, referrals and access to other benefits. You can find the full article at Stars and Stripes.
