Too often, the families of our brave deployed troops and recently discharged veterans face unexpected financial burdens. Imagine the stress when the family car breaks down or essential home systems fail, especially during challenging times. Recognizing these critical needs, the Veterans Car Care Program, embodied by initiatives like the VFW’s Unmet Needs program, steps in to offer vital support.
The VFW’s Unmet Needs program is a lifeline, providing financial assistance of up to $5,000. This crucial aid is available to both active-duty military personnel and veterans, helping them manage essential expenses such as rent, mortgage payments, utility bills, and importantly, vehicle repairs. Ensuring reliable transportation through programs that can be considered part of a broader veterans car care program is paramount for veterans and their families to maintain stability and independence.
Consider the story of Tyisha Jones, an Army veteran who served as a human resource specialist from 2010 to 2015, including a deployment to Qatar during Operation Enduring Freedom. After her military service, Tyisha returned to Memphis, Tennessee, and enrolled in ITT-Technical Institute to pursue her education. However, the unexpected closure of the institute due to bankruptcy threw her and many other students into a severe financial crisis.
“It left me and other students in a financial crisis,” Tyisha recounted, highlighting the sudden instability she faced as a mother of two.
In her search for resources to navigate this hardship, Tyisha discovered the Unmet Needs program online. This program, acting as a pillar of support akin to a veterans car care program by addressing vehicle repair needs and other financial emergencies, offered her a beacon of hope.
“VFW gave me peace of mind,” she explained, emphasizing the program’s immediate impact. “It helped me pay my late bills and bring them current. I almost lost hope, but after I contacted VFW they assured me that they would assist, and they held their promise.” This assistance extended to ensuring her vehicle, a crucial component for daily life and work, could be maintained and repaired if needed, embodying the spirit of a comprehensive veterans car care program.
Now pursuing her studies at Strayer University in Memphis and working at General Electric, Tyisha speaks highly of the VFW and the Unmet Needs program. She gives them an “exceptional rating” for their impactful support.
“I would tell other veterans, ‘If you ever find yourself in a financial crisis like I did, do not hesitate to contact VFW,’” she advises, sharing her positive experience. “They took care of me, and you can rest assured they will take care of you.” For veterans facing vehicle troubles or other financial emergencies, programs like VFW Unmet Needs, which function as a veterans car care program in a broader sense, are invaluable resources deserving of attention and support.
Photo caption: VFW Unmet Needs grant recipient Tyisha Jones and her son, beneficiaries of a program supporting veterans car care and overall stability.
By Janie Dyhouse, associate editor, VFW magazine
