The Service Members Assistance Fund (the “Fund”) engages in charitable fund raising to support service members, their families, and the Rhode Island National Guard’s Family Assistance Center. As part of its mission, the Fund provides grants to eligible members of the Rhode Island National Guard experiencing financial challenges.

The Service Members Assistance Fund is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to providing emergency financial relief to actively serving members of the RI National Guard and their families.  The mission is simple but vital: to strengthen the resilience of service members by reducing the stress caused by financial urgencies emergencies, allowing them to stay focused on their mission, while also fostering a sense of support and connection for their loved ones at home.

Our current fundraising efforts are focused on expanding the reach and sustainability of the mission. This includes events like our upcoming fundraiser dinner (flyer attached), direct donor outreach, golf tournament, and partnerships with local sponsors. Every dollar raised goes directly to helping those who serve.

The service members assistance fund was created to address the types of emergencies that can derail a military's family’s sense of security and focus. For example:

• a service member in the midst of a winter whose home heating unit fails, needing immediate funds for replacement.

• A family recovering from a natural disaster, such as a storm damage or flooding.

• Other emergency home repairs such as a pipe bursting or a tree falling through a roof.

• Unforeseen medical bills that would require immediate assistance before foreclosure or eviction.

These situations, while common, can create overwhelming stress. Our assistance ensures service members can continue performing their duties without being distracted by personal crises. Just as importantly, spouses and children feel seen, supported, and connected to the profession that their loved ones serve. The interaction between military and community is strong in Rhode Island.

What makes the Service Members Assistance Fund especially meaningful is that it is entirely volunteer based, volunteer run, and donor funded. Every effort we make is powered by people who believe in standing behind those who serve and ensuring that no service member feels alone in a time of need.