The Reason…

Every freedom we enjoy today has been safeguarded by the sacrifice and dedication of America’s servicemembers and veterans. These courageous men and women have placed the needs of others above their own, often at great personal cost.

While their military service may conclude, far too many veterans continue to face hardships that affect their health, well-being, housing stability, and overall quality of life.

The United Relief Foundation’s “One Mission. Make a Difference.” commitment transforms gratitude into tangible action, creating meaningful and lasting differences in the lives of the veterans we serve.

The Need to be United in Service.

Approximately 200,000 U.S. servicemembers transition to civilian life each year, navigating the challenges of military-to-civilian reintegration, while women veterans represent the fastest-growing segment of the veteran population.

Women veterans are also among the fastest-growing segments of the homeless population and often face significant economic and housing challenges. Veterans who are single mothers are particularly vulnerable to housing instability and financial hardship.

Veteran suicide remains a national concern. The VA’s most recent report found that an average of 17.7 veterans died by suicide each day, with veterans experiencing a higher risk of suicide than non-veteran adults.

Studies of post-9/11 veterans have found that women veterans report significantly higher rates of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts than their male veteran counterparts.

Economic hardship also affects many who served. More than 1 million veterans live in poverty, and thousands continue to struggle with housing instability.

HUD reported that 32,882 veterans experienced homelessness. Veterans are twice as likely to experience homelessness as individuals who have not served in the military.

In 2024, more than 1.2 million U.S. veterans lived below the poverty line. Veterans are twice as likely to experience homelessness as individuals who have not served in the military.

Among veterans receiving care through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), 14% of male veterans and 24% of female veterans have been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

More than 1 million veterans receive a 100% VA disability rating, while approximately 31% of all veterans have some level of service-connected disability.