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WASHINGTON — Wounded Warrior Project announced Thursday it would give $10 million to veterans experiencing negative financial effects from the coronavirus pandemic.
The nonprofit started reaching out to its members — more than 100,000 veterans — to identify who might be in financial distress. Members in need will be able to apply for $1,000 grants, intended to go toward groceries, utilities or housing.
Money will be distributed to the veterans with the most need until the money is exhausted.
Wounded Warrior Project’s members, who have physical or mental injuries and illnesses related to their military service, are at greater risk of financial hardship, the nonprofit said.
“These are unprecedented times, and we must do all we can to meet the immediate financial needs of wounded warriors and their families,” said reitired Lt. Gen. Mike Linnington, the CEO of the organization.
Wounded Warrior Project urged corporations and foundations Thursday to match their $10 million commitment in order to assist more veterans.
“We cannot do this alone, as the pandemic is greater than any one organization’s ability to meet the vast demand,” Linnington said. “We call on others to assist so we may help as many warriors and their families in crisis as possible in this difficult time.”
Wentling.nikki@stripes.com Twitter: @nikkiwentling