Coast Guard Foundation activates relief for members impacted by government shutdown
by Coast Guard Foundation 19 Jan 2019 06:24 UTC
A crew aboard 52-foot Motor Life Boat Invincible II from Coast Guard Station Grays Harbor prepares to tow a disabled vessel while a second Station Grays Harbor boat crew aboard a 47-foot Motor Life Boat standby near Grays Harbor, Washington, Jan. 7, 2019 © U.S. Coast Guard / Station Grays Harbor
The Coast Guard Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to the education and welfare of all Coast Guard members and their families, announced today that the organization is sendingan initial $250,000 in family support to assist Coast Guard families impacted by the government shutdown.
As noted by the U.S. Coast Guard Commandant, this is the first time in the Nation's history that service members in a U.S. Armed Force have not been paid during a lapse in appropriations.
"We are here to support the brave men and women of the United States Coast Guard, who continue to stand the watch during this challenging time," said Susan Ludwig, president, Coast Guard Foundation."While these funds will not cover the $150 million it takes to fund the Service's payroll, we can send our help to those who continue to put their lives on the line every day and serve our nation with pride."
The Coast Guard Foundation is partnering with the U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association to distribute the support to members around the country.
"We are grateful for the outpouring of support we have seen across the country in response to the needs of Coast Guard service members and their families," added Ludwig. "Everyday Americans are stepping up to help the Foundation and other Coast Guard community-serving organizations."
To make a donation, please visit: coastguardfoundation.org/shutdown.
To learn more about the Coast Guard Foundation or to help support its work, please visit coastguardfoundation.org.