About Temporary Financial Assistance - The American Legion Department of Massachusetts

Last-Modified: 2024-02-18 23:53:04

The American Legion Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program has awarded cash grants to minor children of veterans who are eligible for American Legion membership. These grants help families in need meet the cost of shelter, food, utilities and health expenses, thereby keeping the child or children in a more stable environment. TFA is limited to minor children (17 years or younger) whose biological parent, or legal guardian, is a veteran and is, or would have been, eligible for American Legion membership. However, Legion membership is not required. Children 18-20 years old will also be considered if a current disability requires special schooling or indefinite in-home care, or they are enrolled in an approved high school and unmarried. To be eligible for Legion membership, the parent or guardian must have served at least one day of active duty in the Armed Forces of the United States during one of the following periods: Dec. 7, 1941-Dec. 31, 1946 June 25, 1950-Jan. 31, 1955 Feb. 28, 1961-May 7, 1975 August 24, 1982-July 31, 1984 Dec. 20, 1989-Jan. 31, 1990 Aug. 2, 1990-Cessation of hostilities as determined by the U.S. Government. No child is considered eligible for Temporary Financial Assistance until a complete investigation is conducted at the post or department level; a legitimate family need is determined; and all other available assistance resources have been utilized or exhausted. Additionally, the TFA application must originate and be filled out by someone at the local level.