A non-profit organization is stepping up to the table while hundreds of Nevada National Guardsmen and women are furloughed during the government shutdown.
The Nevada National Guard Association and the Nevada Military Support Alliance donated 96,000 meals to the Food Bank of Northern Nevada and Three Square last week. Another nonprofit, the Katie Grace Foundation, also donated nine pallets of supplies in Northern Nevada for members of the Nevada National Guard who are currently struggling without pay during the shutdown.
According to the Nevada National Guard Association, there are 455 dual-status technicians furloughed or working without pay during the shutdown. Also, 100 civilian employees are also furloughed without pay.
The government shutdown is also affecting 174 federally funded state employees in the Nevada Office of the Military.
U.S. Government has also diverted funds to pay active-duty members, which includes 563 Nevada National Guard Active Guard Reserve.
However, the Nevada National Guard Association says upcoming paychecks remain in doubt as the shutdown drags along.
According to the Nevada Department of Employment, more than 20% of the Nevada National Guard's men and women without pay have applied for unemployment.
“During times like these — when those who have taken the oath to protect and serve our great state and nation, along with the veterans who have already done so, are facing hardship — the Nevada Military Support Alliance and the Nevada National Guard Association are proud to stand together in support of them,” said Dan Morgan, Chairman of the Nevada Military Support Alliance. “Our organizations remain steadfast in our commitment to strengthening our communities and helping those who serve.”
The association reminds the public; contributions are beneficial as members of the armed forces are experiencing financial hardship.
“This latest initiative from NMSA and NNGA underscores our dedication to serving Nevada’s military community in meaningful and practical ways,” said Justin Klatt, Executive Director of the Nevada National Guard Association and a major serving in the Nevada Army National Guard. “We are grateful for the opportunity to join with the NMSA in ensuring our fellow service members and their families receive the support they need during this difficult time.”
