Organizations That Help Military Families
What is a Purple Heart in the military? It is an award given to those wounded or killed while serving in the United States armed forces. The Purple Heart has been awarded to an estimated 1.7 million people since its commencement in 1932. The medal’s precursor, the Badge of Military Merit, was first awarded to Revolutionary War soldiers by George Washington himself beginning in 1782. It was a purple piece of cloth cut in the shape of a heart, giving the newer medal its name.
The Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) was also formed in 1932,with membership only available to those who have earned the award during their service. Of the organizations that help military families, this is the only one made up completely of combat veterans. Their mission is to help enrich the lives of veterans and their families through service.
Organizations that help military families, like the MOPH, do so through programs that give back to the community, such as scholarships, youth programs, volunteering, and programs that promote U.S. history. The most important source of fundraising for these programs is through thrift stores that collect charitable clothing donations, household goods, and even discarded or donated cars.
Any donations for military families come not a moment too soon. At any given time, the unemployment rate for veterans is 2% higher than the national average, and in 2012 alone the unemployment rate among veterans was close to 10%. As of March 2013 there were a reported 207,000 veterans who could not find work. You can contribute to organizations that help military families by providing clothing donations or household items that you don’t need anymore- it’s that easy. To make it even easier, some areas provide donation pickup right at the curb of your home so you don’t have to haul everything to the thrift store. Everything you donate goes to helping families in need, so take a little time today to look critically at your closet and pack up anything that’s not essential. It will feel great!
