Members of the U.S. Coast Guard not receiving their paychecks during the ongoing government shutdown have just been thrown a small life saver by the American Legion.
Throughout the shutdown, the American Legion, in partnership with Coast Guard Mutual Assistance, is offering one-time-per-household Temporary Financial Assistance grants.
“Once National Headquarters has received and approved a TFA application for a Coast Guard member, a check will be overnighted directly to the family in need,” said the American Legion.
American Legion ready to assist Coast Guardsmen affected by shutdown https://t.co/q3pC0eAs2P
— AmericanLegion246 (@Post246_AmLeg) January 10, 2019
SEE: Federal Employees, Contractors Tweet Worries with #ShutdownStories
The funds are provided by private donations to the American Legion Veterans and Children Foundation, which launched last October.
The government shutdown has left approximately 42,000 Coast Guard service members and civilian staff without the prospect of a paycheck, leading to a number of veterans groups urging members of Congress to pass legislation that would fund the military branch controlled by the Department of Homeland Security — the only branch of the armed forces that is currently impacted by the shutdown, which began at midnight on Dec. 22.
“During any single pay cycle, approximately $150 million is required to pay all USCG military and civilian employees,” said Coast Guard Mutual Assistance.
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Legion departments with active-duty Coast Guard commands are encouraged to reach out and share that the American Legion’s Temporary Financial Assistance program is available to meet their immediate needs during the current government shutdown. Questions on eligibility or how to apply for a grant may be directed to (800) 504-4098.
READ: Shutdown Lifeline: Coast Guard Groups Praise Bipartisan Senate Introduction of ‘Pay Our Coast Guard Act’
MORE: Here’s How the Government Shutdown Is Affecting the U.S. Coast Guard