Relief Society

        The Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) was founded in 1904 as a non-profit organization.  They get their money from donations from marines or anybody can just give a donation.   They provide emergency financial help for marines and sailors and their spouses.  They also help retired personnel and widows of retired military personnel.   Most people who work for the NMCRS are volunteers, but Teri and Charlene are permanent staff.  They, along with Anne were extremely helpful to us.

        One requirement for application for assistance is filling out a financial planning sheet.  These are used to figure out if the person will receive a grant or will repay the loan.  Volunteers help the service member to plan out a budget so they can manage their money better.  They will give grants if they think that the person given a loan will not be able to pay it back.  They pay big bills like doctor and dentist bills.  People can go to debt counselors to help them learn how to pay off their bills faster. 

They have a mission to provide partnership, and educational assistance to the Navy and Marine Corps and most any financial help.   The NMCRS also gives scholarships and loans for college.  Children and spouses of navy and marine personnel can receive help with undergraduate programs.

If a pregnant wife takes the “Budgeting for Baby” class they are given a baby layette for their new baby.  These layettes include hand knit sweaters and blankets that have been made and donated by volunteers.  They also have a partnership with Enfamil who provides a diaper bag.  Each baby starts out life with a “Baby Seabag.”

All the bases share the money and it is administered through Washington D.C.  If you would like to send a contribution to the wonderful non-profit organization you can:

Navy Marine Corps Relief Society

P.O. Box 1170

Baltimore, MD 21298-9137