Our Military Kids

Founded in 2004, Our Military Kids saw the need to aid children whose parents were serving our country overseas.  Because many National Guard and Reserves are geographically dispersed when they are stationed, families are not always centrally located around military bases that offer support services.  The lack of military base support causes many families to become financially stretched, and are no longer able to afford fees associated with sports, music and dance programs, tutoring programs or other activities that children enjoy and benefit from.  Our Military Kids fills this funding void by offering children/families grants which pay for these types of activities. See activities here http://www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-apply/eligible-program-activities/.

Applying is easy (http://www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-apply/apply-now/) but there are two important things you should know first.  A child may only be eligible if it is his or her first grant, and the grant may not exceed $500.  This is due to federal budget cuts (this revision was made May 1, 2011). If you believe your child is eligible, here are the three things needed in order to receive a grant:

1.        A copy of deployment orders which show that the child’s parent is in the National Guard or Reserves deployed overseas and has at least 60 days remaining on orders.

2.       Child’s military dependent ID card (see website for other accepted forms of identification).

3.       Documentation of clearly stated activity costs (flyer, letter from the organization, brochure, etc.). Note:  If the tutoring service is from an individual, proof of a teaching certificate must be available in order to receive a grant.

Because Our Military Kids is a non-profit organization, every little bit counts.  Our Military Kids has fortunately never denied a grant to an eligible child.  It is because of individuals, corporations and foundations that generously donate funds that keep this program alive.  More than 95 cents of every dollar donated goes directly into the activities or tutoring services because administrative and fundraising expenses are so low (Roughly three percent in 2010 revenue).  If you would like to help donate, a small contribution will make a big difference.  A child will be able to play ball, cheer for the peewee squad or excel at math again. Donate here: http://www.ourmilitarykids.org/how-to-help-our-military-kids/make-a-financial-contribution/