Children & Youth
The American Legion has a long and proud tradition of supporting our nation’s youth. The organization was founded on this principle in 1919, when Children & Youth was declared one of the four pillars of The American Legion. In the 100+ years since our establishment, a number of youth-oriented programs have been developed including Temporary Financial Assistance, Family Support Network and child safety and wellbeing programs.
The National Americanism Commission’s Children & Youth Committee is the center of the Legion’s youth-support efforts. The national committee meets annually to formulate, recommend and implement plans, programs and activities designed to accomplish:
- Assure care and protection for the children of veterans.
- Improve conditions for all children and youth with due concern for maintaining the integrity of the family home.
- Prevent social and physical ills of children and youth where possible, utilizing services of and cooperating with sound organizations and agencies for children and youth.
- Maintain a balanced program that provides for their physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual needs.
The American Legion has been a strong advocate for children and youth since its inception. This steadfast dedication has never wavered and continues to be a driving force on behalf of children across the country today.
Children & Youth Scholarships
TWO scholarships are awarded each year – One (1) $2,500 and One (1) $1,500
QUALIFICATIONS
- Must be the son or daughter of a member of The American Legion, Department of Washington, or its Auxiliary, living or deceased, currently in good standing, or in good standing at time of death.
- Must currently be enrolled in an accredited school as a high school senior.
- Scholarships applications must be approved at the Local Post level and forwarded to the Department of Washington by April 1st of each year.
Temporary Financial Assistance
Since its establishment in 1925, The American Legion Temporary Financial Assistance (TFA) program has awarded cash grants to minor children of current active duty or American Legion members. 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?
The minor child must not be older than 17, or 20 if still enrolled in high school or is physically handicapped. The minor child must be the biological child, stepchild, or in the legal custody of, a qualifying veteran. A qualifying veteran is defined as a member of the United States Armed Forces serving on federal orders current under Title 10 of the United States Code, inclusive of all components, OR any veteran possessing an up-to-date membership in The American Legion. Active duty applicants can be considered without being a member of The American Legion. A single onetime non-repayable Temporary Financial Assistance grant of up to $1,500 will be permitted for the minor child(ren) of a qualifying veteran.
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.
How to Apply
Applications must be processed thru a local American Legion Post or District. Find the nearest post HERE.