MY LEGION
Through a variety of internal and external programs, The American Legion Children & Youth Division strengthens families, provides services to young people, and meets the physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual needs of our nation’s youth.
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Temporary Financial Assistance
Since its establishment in 1925, 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.
Who is eligible for a grant?
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 since December 7, 1941 and have been honorable discharged or are currently serving honorably.
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.
Make a donation
You can donate to the Temporary Financial Assistance program by sending a check or money order, made out to South Dakota American Legion, write into the memo "TFA Fund".
Temporary Financial Assistance is a program of:
The American Legion, Department of South Dakota
Children & Youth Fund
PO Box 67
Watertown, SD 57201
For more information or to apply:
Contact your Local American Legion Post
Temp Financial Assistance Form (PDF)