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Financial Assistance, Transportation
& Military Discounts

​​2-1-1 First Call for Help ~ United Way & Human Resource Council (HRC): http://www.hrcxi.org/

FREE confidential referral and information helpline and website open 24 hrs/day, 7 days/wk (Call 2-1-1 or 549-5555): Supplemental food and nutrition programs; utilities assistance; emergency information and disaster relief; Veteran services; AND MORE!

​Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP): http://humanresourcecouncil.org/energy-bill-assistance-services

HRC Mineral County: 211 Third Ave West, Superior (406) 822-4251, info@hrcxi.org

HRC Missoula County: 1801 S. Higgins Ave, Missoula (406) 728-3710, info@hrcxi.org

HRC Ravalli County: 303 N. Third, Hamilton (406) 363-6101, info@hrcxi.org

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AARP Montana ~ Community Challenge Grants: https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/

Contacts: Nancy, nandersen@aarp.org; Tracy, tbertram@aarp.org OR Evey, eowen@aarp.org

How Veterans Can Maximize Their Tax Benefits When Filing ~ Tips https://www.aarp.org/home-family/voices/veterans/info-2021/maximize-tax-benefits.html

Questions: Nancy Andersen - Outreach Director & Volunteer Program Manager, AARP Montana, 30 W. 14th St. Ste 301, Helena (406) 457-4703, C (702) 595-9811,

NAndersen@aarp.org

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Able Forces: https://www.ableforces.org/

Able Forces Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, founded by a disabled Veteran with a MISSION to provide immediate financial assistance to military and Veteran families identified in financial crisis.

Questions: (540) 631-9600, skip.rogers@ableforces.org

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American Legion ~ Temporary Financial Assistance: https://georgialegion.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/6-TFA-APPLICATION-1.pdf

From the American Legion's "Americanism and Children & Youth Division” for Veterans with children.

Questions: AL Post 27 (406) 543-7391, hellgatepost27@yahoo.com

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​American Red Cross of Montana ~ “Service to the Armed Forces” (SAF): https://www.redcross.org/local/washington-dc/about-us/our-work/service-to-the-armed-forces.html

Emergency Communications, Financial Assistance, Resiliency, Veteran Appeals, etc.

SAF Program Manager: Sara (406) 750-9939, sara.cease@redcross.org

Red Cross is the “Communication Arm of the Military” Reconnection Workshops: http://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/deployment-services/register-reconnection-workshops

“Be Red Cross Ready!”: http://serve.mt.gov/american-red-cross-of-montana/

VOLUNTEER - Missoula contact: Gini, (406) 750-9939, virginia.kay@redcross.org  

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America the Beautiful Military Pass: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm

FREE annual pass for current US military members and their dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force, as well as Reserve and National Guard members.

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Amtrak Passenger Discount for Military Veterans: https://www.amtrak.com/veterans-discount

VA Blog: https://blogs.va.gov/VAntage/66963/amtrak-offers-veteran-military-member-discounts/

Questions: (800) 872-7245

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Bob Woodruff Foundation ~ Grants: https://bobwoodrufffoundation.org/

The Bob Woodruff Foundation is a national nonprofit dedicated to ensuring post-9/11 impacted Veterans, service members, and their families. Contact: (646) 441-6864, info@bobwoodrufffoundation.org

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BUS Routes ~ Mountain Line (FREE): https://mountainline.com/

Map: https://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/DocumentCenter/View/58595/Warming-Shelters-Map-2021-Update-1

Questions: (406) 721-3333, info@mountainline.com

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CELL PHONES ~ Federal Lifeline Program Assistance: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers

2023 This FCC program has expanded and now includes cell phones (data, minutes, and texting). The service is provided through QLink Wireless: https://enroll.qlinkwireless.com/signup/

Questions: Lifeline (800) 234-9473, LifelineSupport@usac.org

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CLOTHING ~ Donations & Thrift

Alberton Clothing Company, PO Box 265: albertonclothingcompany@gmail.com

**DONATION PICKUP or MEET ARRANGEMENTS: please DM through Facebook, Instagram, OR call/text 406-880-5013. IF YOU NEED items and/or if you would like me to put together a bag of various items privately, please DM/message. To date, clothing has been distributed from St. Regis to Ronan to Arlee to Missoula; no community is excluded.

Bitterroot

Stevensville Free Store, 3614 ALC Way

406-369-0394 (Gail) Open: 10am-4pm, Monday, Wednesday, Saturday

Missoula

  • Bargain Corner, 200 S California St 406-543-4926 Open: 11am-5pm, Monday-Friday & 10am-4pm, Saturday

  • Hope Thrift Boutique, 702 SW Higgins Ave 406-728-5538 / 406-549-4673 (See HOPE Rescue Mission below)

  • ReStyle Clothing Exchange, 1010 North Ave W 406-317-1650 Open: 11am-7pm, Monday-Sunday

  • River of Life Clothes Closet 4007 MT-200, East Missoula 406-214-3803 Open: 24 Hours

  • Salvation Army Missoula, 355 S Russell St 406-549-0710 Open: 9am-3pm, Monday-Thursday

  • Secret Seconds Thrift Store, 1136 W Broadway St 406-549-1610 Open: 12pm-6pm, Monday-Friday

  • TC Resale & Donation Thrift Store, 2036 Mullan Rd 406-728-1171 Open: 10am-6pm, Monday-Saturday

  • Underground Thrift Store, 705 S Higgins Ave 406-543-7154 Open: 10am-3pm, Monday-Saturday

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DAV Disaster Relief: https://www.dav.org/veterans/outreach-programs/disaster-relief/

Our Disaster Relief Program supports veterans, service members, surviving spouses and their families during times of great need in the aftermath of isolated/large-scale disasters. Questions: Fort Harrison, (406) 495-2089

Volunteer Drivers NEEDED ASAP: Mary Jo, “I'm the LAC for Mineral County and just started with Ronan and the Flathead. I have 2 drivers in both counties which is not enough!” Learn more: https://www.dav.org/get-involved/volunteer/drive-a-vehicle/

Mary Jo Berry - DAV (406) 822-2213, Spr4800@blackfoot.net

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Grants for Veterans ~ Low Income: http://freegrantsforveterans.org/

Assistance for low income veterans with finding free grants. These grants help veterans with rent, housing, education, medical bills, and utility bills. Montana: http://freegrantsforveterans.org/grants-for-veterans-in-montana/

Questions: Carol Wright, carolwrightmails@gmail.com

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Hilton Honors™ Military Program: https://www.naswa.org/partnerships/hilton-honors

Provides up to 100,000 hotel points to eligible Transitioning Service Members and Veterans to support needed travel for verifiable employment related activities, such as a job search, training for a new job, or finding housing (process can take 7-10 days for approval so plan accordingly) If you’re a Veteran seeking a short stay while conducting a job search or looking for housing, please contact: Nick Moschetti - State Veteran Coordinator, Montana Department of Labor & Industry (406) 444-1630, nmoschetti@mt.gov

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Homeword ~ Financial Fitness Workshops: www.homeword.org

  • Financial Fitness Classes (Introduction to Achievable Savings Goals, Credit Repair, Retirement Strategy, Debt Repayment Plans, and Building YOUR Financial Freedom): http://www.homeword.org/our-services/financial-education/

  • New IDA account has been funded to incentivize Financial Education! There are no income restrictions to qualify and other than doing 3 follow up 1 on 1 coaching sessions with me there are really minimal rules to get the funds! The largest match allowed is $500. REGISTER: https://homeword.org/financial-skills/

  • We are still offering the Matched Savings Program with NeighborWorks Montana. That means the money a participant saves, up to $500, will be matched for a potential of $1,000 in their account! Through this program they also get tools and advice for setting a household budget that includes continued saving, increasing their credit score and reducing their debt. Participants can complete the requirements with either our financial educator or our homebuyer educator. https://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/DocumentCenter/View/63080/091522-HOC-Brochure

Questions: 1535 Liberty Lane, Suite #116A, Missoula (406) 532-4663, info@homeword.org OR Katie@homeword.org

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HOPE Rescue Mission (formerly Union Gospel Mission): https://www.hopemontana.org/

549-HOPE Ministry and Administration  2811 Latimer, Suite 223, Missoula (Revive Church) ~ Food & hygiene items, clothing & household goods. Helping People get back on their feet and restoring HOPE and resources in their time of need. DONATE: https://www.hopemontana.org/contact/

Questions: 549-HOPE (4673), office@ugmofmissoula.org

OR April - Director Of Community Outreach (406) 542-5240, outreach@ugmofmissoula.org

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The Independence Fund: https://www.independencefund.org/

To assist Veteran families who may be experiencing financial challenges, the Independence Fund established a new program, Independence@Home, to help homebound Veterans with emergent costs like rent, utilities, childcare, transportation, and grocery and medical product delivery.

VA Blog: https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/75056/independence-fund-expands-gift-cards-veterans/

Questions: (888) 851-7996, theverardos@gmail.com

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Internet ~ White House: https://www.whitehouse.gov/getinternet/

The cost of high speed internet is fully covered for millions! VA Blog: https://blogs.va.gov/VAntage/103295/fcc-program-offers-affordable-low-cost-internet-access-to-eligible-households/

Questions: Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) www.fcc.gov/ACP or call 877-384-2575

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Mancave Barbershop: https://the-mancave-barbershop.hub.biz/

Discount for Veterans! We specialize in men's grooming services including Hot Shaves and all types of men's haircuts and styles. 315 N. Pattee, Missoula Questions: Paula Bauer (406) 370-0932, Tara Patton (406) 880-5831

OR (406) 542-2283, MSG FB page: https://www.facebook.com/mancavemissoula

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Meals on Wheels: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals

Allows seniors who are unable to leave their homes to shop, or have difficulty preparing a meal, to have healthy meals delivered to their homes. Missoula Senior Center (406) 543-7154, manager@missoulaseniorcenter.org

OR Missoula Aging Services (406) 728-7682, help@missoulaagingservices.org

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Mineral County Pioneer Council

“As a Representative here in the State of Montana, I was elected on the promise that I would represent the needs and interests of the rural residents of Missoula County.  Currently, I am working on several bills that intend to do just that. The first bill I am honored to sponsor involves revising the eligibility for disabled veteran property tax assistance programs.  Essentially this bill will amend the law to exclude income from sources such as retirement benefits, or social security benefits, in unusual circumstances. The bill outlines unusual circumstances of income such as medical and funeral expenses for the veteran and their immediate family, major home and vehicle repairs, as well as education or career training. I firmly believe that by removing income in those unusual circumstances from adjusted gross income calculations for the eligibility of disabled veteran property tax assistance programs, we can show our support for the men and woman who sacrificed for our country, while making sure our veterans and their families can stay in their homes. In addition, I will be sponsoring a bill to ensure the senior and disabled communities continue to have life essential rides from their local transit providers. Due to supply chain issues in the bus industry, buses that were ordered 3 years ago at $90,000 are now costing $120,000. Many of these small rural systems can’t raise the additional funds to accept delivery of the bus. This simple change will provide your local Senior Center, Council on Aging, Tribal Transit or urban paratransit service with that additional local match. I continue to look for ways to serve the people of HD 97 and greatly appreciate all of you who have contacted me with your insight.” 

Questions: Lyn Hellegaard - President, lhellegaard@msn.com

OR Monte Turner – VP, WMMOA & Hagadone Media. The VSN’s Mineral County Liaison (406) 370-4335, monteturner54@gmail.com

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Missoula Aging Services ~ Lifelong Connections Program: https://missoulaagingservices.org/get-help/daily-living/lifelong-connections.html

The program provides tablets with internet service and training to older adults so they can connect with online resources, friends, and family.

Questions: (406) 728-7682 OR jschultz@missoulaagingservices.org

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​Missoula Economic Partnership ~ Big Sky Trust Fund Grants: http://www.missoulapartnership.com/big-sky-trust-fund-grants/; OR APPLY: https://marketmt.com/BSTF

Contacts: http://www.missoulapartnership.com/contact/; OR Nicole Rush, Business Initiatives Director (406) 541-6461, Cell (406) 594-7874, nrush@missoulapartnership.com

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Missoula Food Bank: https://www.missoulafoodbank.org/

Works with local partners to strengthen access to SNAP and other assistance programs through outreach and education. Access to public nutrition programs and provides direct assistance through in-person application clinics and MFBN’s assistance hotline. The Food Bank also has a very simple form to obtain free school clothes for children.

Questions: 1720 Wyoming St., Missoula (406) 549-0543 OR Gayle Carlson - President & CEO, gcarlson@mfbn.org

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Missoula Mutual Aid Warehouse

Everything is FREE and they don’t ask any questions except, “what do you need?” Diapers, wipes, formula, baby food; Cat/Dog soft & wet food; Cleaning products such as gallon of Clorox, gallon of vinegar, dish soap, sometimes laundry detergent (supply varies); Paper towels; Toilet paper; Feminine hygiene products; Razors, shaving cream; Thermometers; Can openers. HOURS: 150 S. Catlin St., Missoula Monday, Tuesday, and Thursdays: 10am-7pm; Wednesdays 10am-1pm; Closed Friday-Sunday. Questions / Coordinate delivery: (406) 219-1843

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Missoula Water Utility Bill Assistance Program: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/energyassistance/ 

Administered through the Department of Public Health and Human Services for assistance with both water and wastewater bills in addition to assistance with energy bills. People who qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will also qualify for the Low Income Home Water /Wastewater Assistance Program (LIHWAP) Questions: HRC 1801 South Higgins, Missoula (406) 728-3710

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Montana Man Shop: http://www.montanamanshops.com/

1124 W. Central Ave., Missoula

Over the last ten years we have been honored to offer thousands of free haircuts to Veterans on Veterans Day! (buzz or scissor cuts to active duty, reservist or Veteran) at all eleven locations (Billings, Great Falls and Missoula / 8 in WA) We also happily provide a Veteran /first responder 20% discount every Wednesday on any service. Please have some form of military ID or DD214 available to show at checkout (we have even accepted some military tattoos in the past.)

Questions: Mike (406) 926-2740, mike@montanamanshops.com

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Northern Transit Interlocal (NTI): https://www.northern.rural-transit.com/

NO COST* Public Bus Transportation to & from Great Falls, Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, West & East Glacier, Browning, Conrad, Cut Bank, Sunburst, Sweet Grass/Coutts Border, Valier, & Shelby! David, "Veterans, disabled or not deserve the best transportation...we are 100% invested." (406) 470-0727, tctransit@gmail.com

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NW Montana Veterans Stand Down & Food Pantry ~ Kalispell: http://veteransfoodpantry.org/ 

Serving those who have served! Dedicated to extending a helping hand up to homeless, low-income, and at-risk veterans and their families (Food boxes, clothing, household furnishings, Veterans Stand Down, benefits assistance, Peer Support, and much more!)

Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Loan Program (1349 Hwy 2 East, Kalispell MT 59901): Accepting ALL donations of medical equipment, wheelchairs, etc. for the DME loan program & offer the equipment to all low income / at-risk Veterans free of charge.

Questions: Cinnamon Davis-Hall - Community Outreach Specialist (406) 250-2394, cdhall03@gmail.com

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Office of PUBLIC ASSISTANCE: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/OfficeofPublicAssistance.aspx

Help Line (M - F 8:30AM – 4:30PM online apply.mt.gov): 1-888-706-1535

Montana DPHHS, OFFICE OF PUBLIC ASSISTANCE (OPA), 2677 Palmer, Suite 100, Missoula, hhshcsopamissoula@mt.gov

HAMILTON, 310 N 3rd St, Hamilton, hhshcsoparavalli@mt.gov
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps); Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF); Health Coverage (Medicaid; Medicaid Expansion Programs; Health Coverage for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled, & Medicare Premium Assistance); Emergency Assistance to Families with Children; Referrals

Questions: Kara Thomas, Field Operation Manager, Missoula Field Office of Public Assistance, Public Assistance Bureau/HCSD/DPHHS, (406) 329-1233, kathomas@mt.gov

Double SNAP Dollars: http://www.doubledollarsmt.com/locations

Shop with SNAP/EBT and get bonus fruits & vegetables – swipe your EBT card to buy SNAP eligible foods.

Missoula: Farmers Market, N. Higgins Ave. by the XXX’s ($20 match per market) Saturdays May – October, 8am – 12:30pm and Tuesdays June – September, 5:30 – 7pm

Clark Fork Market: Under the Higgins Bridge ($20 match per market) Saturdays May – October, 8am – 1pm

Questions: (406) 926-1004, cfacinfo@missoulacfac.org

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​​O'Reilly Auto Parts ~ Military Discount: https://www.oreillyauto.com/military-discount

Questions (local): (406) 721-3870 / 721-7830; Corporate: prichards@oreillyauto.com

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PENFED Foundation: https://penfedfoundation.org/apply-for-assistance/emergency-financial-assistance/

Emergency Financial Assistance: The Military Heroes Fund emergency financial assistance program offers financial assistance for wounded, ill, and injured post 9-11 veterans who are experiencing an unexpected short term (1- 2 months) financial setback.

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Retired Military & Annuitants: www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary

Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). Request a 1099-R, report the death of a retiree, manage your retirement, and more!

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River of Life Church: https://rolmt.com/

4007 Montana 200 – East Missoula

River of Life was planted in East Missoula in April 2008 by Jason & Shannon Tonn, and (per VSN Leadership in ), “able to deliver furniture items to families who have recently came out of homelessness.”

Questions: (844) 447-6568 or (406) 214-3803, office@rolmt.com

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Rural Dynamics, Inc. (RDI) ~ “ENRICH” Financial Wellness: https://ruraldynamics.enrich.org/

Unlimited access to personalized financial education and support. Ask us if you qualify to receive financial services for FREE! A certified financial coach is available to help you create a personalized plan to manage your finances, credit, paycheck planning, student loans, debt, and/or answer questions. Popular Tools: https://ruraldynamics.enrich.org/topics

Questions: (406) 454-5708, finlit@ruraldynamics.org

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Salvation Army: http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/  

Social Services: Showers, laundry, food boxes, rental assistance, utility assistance, gas / bus vouchers, hygiene kits, school backpacks / clothes, Christmas toys / food, computer use (9-12, M-TH for JOBS and HOUSING only).

Church Services: Sunday School (9:30am), Sunday Worship (10:45am), Men’s Fellowship (Sun at 5:30pm)

Family Night Programs – Wednesdays 5:30pm (Kids’ Character Building Programs, Adult Bible Study)

Questions: Salvation Army, 355 S. Russell St., Missoula, 9am – 3pm (406) 549-0710

OR: Ryan Boyd – Captain, Corps Officer (406) 215-1781, Ryan.Boyd@usw.salvationarmy.org

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Semper Fi Fund: https://semperfifund.org/get-assistance/

In the hour of need, our heroes deserve the very best care and support. We are committed to being there at the time of injury or illness and, if necessary, for a lifetime. Please reach out today.

Questions: 760-725-3680

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The Shades of Green on Walt Disney Resort ~ Military Discount: https://www.shadesofgreen.org/

An AFRC in FL “designed to provide R&R for our nation's brave service members and their families.”

Questions: (407) 824-3400, feed.back@shadesofgreen.org

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SNAP Employment & Training (MT DPHHS):  https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/SNAP

Current Counties being served are: Missoula, Silver Bow, Deer Lodge, Gallatin, Flathead, Big Horn, Lincoln, Yellowstone and Lewis & Clark:

  • Job Service Missoula, serves Missoula County residents | 539 S. 3rd Street West | 406-218-7478

  • Career Futures, Inc., serves Silver Bow, Deer Lodge counties | 55 West Granite, Butte, MT | 406-723-9101

  • Career Transitions, serves Gallatin County | 189 Arden Drive, Belgrade, MT | 406-388-6701

  • Community Action Partnership (CAP), serves Flathead County | 214 Main Street, Kalispell, MT | 406-752-6565

  • Community Action Partnership (CAP), serves Lincoln County | 933 Farm to Market #B, Libby, MT | 406-293-2712

  • Human Resource Council District VII (HRDC 7), serves Big Horn and Yellowstone Counties | 7 North 31st Street, Billings, MT | 406-247-4732

  • Career Training Institute (CTI), serves Lewis & Clark Counties | 347 North Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT | 406-443-0800

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Social Security ~ Survivor Benefit: https://www.thebalance.com/who-is-eligible-for-a-social-security-death-benefit-2388916; Questions: Missoula Aging Services (406) 728-7682

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TANF Emergency Assistance: https://dphhs.mt.gov/hcsd/TANF

EA can be used for temporary lodging, personal care items (diapers, formula, etc.), food, and clothing or other items/services that will help a family overcome the emergency and does not have income limits. Families do not have to be eligible for, or in receipt of TANF Cash to be eligible for EA. EA can be provided to families with children under the age of 21 years who are residing with the caretaker relative, and pregnant women in their 3rd trimester. Questions: TANF@mt.gov

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Tax Resources: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-resources-for-military-members-veterans-and-their-families

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United Way of Missoula County: https://www.missoulaunitedway.org/

Education, health, income, and “Reaching Home” Questions: 412 W. Alder St., Missoula (406) 549-6104, info@missoulaunitedway.org

Or, Theresa Williams, LCSW, Reaching Home Coordinator, United Way of Missoula County, (406) 552-6398, theresa@missoulaunitedway.org

NW Montana: 1203 US Highway 2 W Ste 31, Kalispell, (406) 752-8181, info@unitedwaycares.org

Roxanna Parker, Executive Director, United Way of Kalispell, (406) 752-7266

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USA Cares: ​​usacares.org

USA Cares provides financial and advocacy assistance to post-9/11 active duty US military service personnel, veterans and their families.

Questions: 1-800-773-0387, info@usacares.org

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USAA: https://www.usaa.com/

Insurance, Banking, Investments, Advice for Veterans & service members!

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​U.S Small Business Administration ~  Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program

As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov

Contact: Brent E. Donnelly, District Director – Montana, U.S. Small Business Administration, Desk: 406-441-1083, Mobile: 406-439-7613, . Brent.Donnelly@sba.gov

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VA Nutrition & Food Services: https://www.nutrition.va.gov/

Develops and provides comprehensive evidenced based nutritional services for our Veterans and their families across VHA’s health care facilities. NFS delivers safe and high quality patient food services.

More info / VA BLOG: https://www.blogs.va.gov/VAntage/76951/working-together-ensure-veteran-food-security/

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Veterans Canteen Service: https://shopvcs.va.gov/

Mega Deals with brands like Oakley, Ray-Ban, Danner Boots, Garmin and more!

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Veterans, Inc. ~ STATEWIDE: https://www.veteransinc.org/

Call of Duty Endowment (CODE) grant. Helping Veterans who are unemployed or under-employed obtain work clothing, tools, financial assistance for certifications and MORE!

Questions: Jennifer Thomas - Universal Services Advocate (406) 591-7519, Cell (406) 591-7519, jenniferthomas@veteransinc.org

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Veteran Stand Downs – Nationwide

www.va.gov/homeless/events.asp

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Veterans Support Foundation: http://vsf-usa.org/apply

Provides funding in the form of grants supporting veteran related projects (funding solely for scientific, charitable, and educational purposes).

Questions: 800-882-1316 ext 126, info@vsf-usa.org

Financial & Military Discounts: Welcome
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