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News from Our Partners: AER’s 2021 Annual Campaign Kicks Off

As the Army kicks off its 79th Annual Army Emergency Relief Campaign on military installations around the world, we’re taking a look back at the enhancements AER implemented over the last year. Last year, AER worked to rapidly identify and address the emerging needs of Soldiers due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including new partnerships with effective non-profit organizations and improvements our digital infrastructure to ensure every Soldier and every Army Family had access to the programs and benefits they’ve earned.

AER has a history of responding dynamically to natural disasters, such as hurricanes and wildfires.This experience allowed us to identify areas where restrictions caused by COVID-19 might create new areas of need. We created new programs such as Childcare Assistance, Remote Learning Benefits, and Spouse Education and Reemployment Initiatives. We expanded eligibility for Army National Guard and Army Reserve members requiring assistance with F/SGLI and Tricare premiums due to canceled drill assemblies.

AER expanded our reach with Active Duty Soldiers and their Families by partnering with the National Military Family Association (NMFA) to provide financial support for childcare to more than 2,000 eligible Army Families. All told, AER provided $5 million in grants to support Soldiers during the pandemic.

Throughout the pandemic, the Retired Soldiers community provided nearly $4 million in financial assistance, the most support we have ever received! Your support is a critical part of ensuring AER has the means to assist the Army community through any hardship. Soon you’ll receive detailed information about AER’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and how we met the needs of routine requests throughout 2020, so check your mailbox towards the end of March!

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance from Army Emergency Relief, contact your local AER office (armyemergencyrelief.org/offices) or call the American Red Cross (1-877-272-7337).

To learn more about supporting AER during our annual campaign please visit armyemergencyrelief.org/campaign


 

Page updated March 17, 2021