ALEXANDRIA, Va., Oct. 23, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The National Military Family Association has been awarded a two-year, $100,000 grant from Newman's Own Foundation as part of its "Honoring Those Who Serve" initiative aimed at supporting United States military men, women, and families. The independent foundation was created by the late actor and philanthropist, Paul Newman.
The National Military Family Association will use the funds to support its Operation Purple® Camps that help give military children a break from war, friends to confide in, coping skills to handle mom or dad's absence, and some fun to offset the extra responsibilities in their complicated young lives. In the 10 years since the program was created, 50,000 military kids and families have attended an Operation Purple camp or retreat.
"This support comes at a critical time," says Association Executive Director Joyce Raezer. "While many people see the wars coming to an end and our troops coming home, there nearly 70,000 service men and women are still in Afghanistan and thousands more are deployed to other dangerous places around the world. We can't lessen our support for their families, especially their children, waiting for them at home."
"There is no greater sacrifice than serving and defending our country," said Robert Forrester, Newman's Own Foundation President and CEO. "More service men and women are surviving injuries and coming home with serious wounds and conditions, so we are making a significant grant commitment to help meet the increased needs. We are pleased to award a grant to The National Military Family Association as they endeavor to make a difference in the lives of our veterans and their families."
Overall, Newman's Own Foundation is awarding $7 million in grants over three years, 2012-2014, to more than 50 organizations across the country that deal with veterans' issues such as health, housing, education, career development, and family support.
About the National Military Family Association
Military families serve our country with pride, honor, and quiet dedication. The National Military Family Association is the leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening and protecting the families of the men and women currently serving, retired, wounded or fallen. We provide families of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Commissioned Corps of the USPHS and NOAA with information, work to get them the benefits they deserve, and offer programs that improve their lives. Our 44 years of service and accomplishments have made us a trusted resource for military families and the Nation's leaders. To learn more, visit www.MilitaryFamily.org .
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