Relief Society begins annual fund drive

The fund drive to support Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society programs and services kicked off its two-month long campaign Thursday, March 1.

“We are hoping to do fund raising events for the fund drive and make 100 percent contact with all active duty Sailors and Marines aboard Naval Air Station Corpus Christi,” said ABHC Carlo Abalos, who is the key worker for the NMCRS fund drive on the base this year. “NMCRS means ownership; the Society is a non-profit organization and does not get funding from the government.”

“The society has been providing assistance to active duty Sailors and Marines, and their families, for many years. The funds only come from those who contribute throughout the year and from the annual fund drive. Active duty personnel are helping each other out,” Abalos added. “We are thankful that the society exist and is always ready to help those that qualify in times of financial assistance.”

Services provided by the Society include interest-free loans and grants for emergencies; budget counseling and financial education; registered nurses who make home visits; Budget for Baby workshops; thrift shops; as well as, referrals to other resources.

According to NAVADMIN 028/18, last year NMCRS used in excess of $1 million from donations to support those impacted by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, and their devastating effects across the southeast. Additionally, the financial assistance provided by NMCRS is the lifeline that makes the difference for Navy and Marine families and keeps our Sailors and Marines focused on the mission when an unforeseen financial crisis exceeds their ability to make ends meet.

Overall in 2017, nearly 56,000 Sailors and Marines received more than $45 million in financial assistance from NMCRS.