VETERANS AND FAMILY SUPPORT

Veterans and Family Support 
 September 2026 
 

Brothers and Sisters,

I hope you are doing well and are continuing to connect regularly with our Veterans, Service Members, Military Families, and communities. Your outreach and support can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served and their families.

 This month, we are highlighting Suicide Prevention Awareness and MAP Grants


September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.

This month reminds us that every life matters and that reaching out for help—or supporting someone who may be struggling—can make all the difference.

 

Suicide is preventable. By talking openly, breaking down stigma, and connecting people with available resources, we can create a community of care where no one feels alone in their struggles.

 

Take a moment this month to check in on your friends, family members, fellow Veterans, service members, and colleagues. Learn the warning signs of suicide and remember that sometimes simply asking: "How are you really doing?” can open the door to hope.

 

Together, we can spread awareness, show compassion, and remind one another that healing and help are always within reach.

 

Veterans Crisis Line

If you or someone you know is struggling, dial 988 and Press 1 for immediate support.

The Veterans Crisis Line serves:

  • Veterans
  • Service members
  • National Guard and Reserve members
  • Those who support Veterans and service members

 

You can dial 988, then Press 1; chat live; or text 838255. A caring, qualified responder will listen and help.

 

Take Action This Month

  1. Partner with your local county offices to plan an educational event focused on suicide prevention and the needs of the military and Veteran community.
  2. Connect with an organization to participate in or organize a suicide-prevention walk in October.
  3. Promote the Veterans Crisis Line and make sure Veterans, service members, and families in your community know how to access it.

MAP GRANTS

MAP Grants are a crucial resource for VFW Posts supporting their adopted military units and strengthening relationships within their communities.

Important Information

  • An email will be out this month to all Oregon VFW Posts/Auxiliaries that have a current Adopted Unit, along with a list of current contacts.
  • MAP GRANT Applications open October 1st, 2026.
  • Applications are available through the VFW Post Dashboard.
  • Only VFW Post Commander and QM have access to this feature.
  • All grant applications must be completed through the Post Dashboard.
  • The maximum grant amount is $1,500 per event.
  • Check in with your units and verify the events you will be assisting with this year.

 

Sept 9th, 2026 7 pm

I will be holding a Zoom call to update all existing Posts/Auxiliaries with Adopted Units on the MAP Grant process. Email me at lovfwaux12140@gmail.com if you would like the link.

Questions? Please reach out for assistance.

 

THIS MONTH'S CALL TO ACTION

As we move through September, let’s continue putting our mission into action:

 

Check in. Reach out. Educate. Connect. Support.

Whether you are helping a Veteran find financial assistance, connecting a military family with resources, promoting suicide prevention, supporting an adopted unit, or helping a Veteran pursue an education, your efforts matter.

 

Together, we can ensure that Veterans, service members, and their families know that the VFW Auxiliary is here to serve and support them.

 

Thank you for all that you do for our Veterans, military members, and their families. Veterans and families are counting on us. Let's continue to be there for them.

 

Sincerely

Tracy Bogard

Department of Oregon Veterans and Family Support Chairman 2026-2027

(971) 678-2595

Lovfwaux12140@gmail.com