Frequently Asked Questions: Service to the Armed Forces

What services does the American Red Cross provide to members of the United States Armed Forces?

• Emergency communication messages.
• Provide casualty assistance and transportation financial assistance.
• Access to emergency financial assistance.
• Support to wounded soldiers at military transition units.
• Support to military families as a partner of the Department of Defense Joint Family Support Assistance Program (JFSAP).
  
• Volunteer services in military and veterans hospitals and clinics.
• Additional information and referral to partnering organizations.    

What type of emergency communication messages does the Red Cross provide for members of the armed forces?

• Death or illness of immediate family members (spouse, child, parents, siblings, grandparents, and in-laws).
  
• Birth of a child or grandchild.
• Other urgent, time-critical family emergencies.  

When and where can military personnel receive services?

The American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces programs are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, anywhere in the world. Just call 1-800-ARC-MONT or 1-800-696-3873 and ask for a military caseworker.   

Should an emergency arise, what information should I have available for the American Red Cross to help me?

The following service member information is useful to have available when seeking American Red Cross assistance:

• Rank
• Social Security Number
• Date of birth
• Branch of service
• Military phone number
• Military address (city, base and zip or APO)   

How much do these services cost?

The American Red Cross is congressionally mandated to provide emergency communications between active members of the armed forces and their families. This service is offered free of charge. 

How can I learn more about the Service to the Armed Forces program? 

You can learn more about the program by reviewing the Get to Know Us Before You Need Us presentation.