2026 Disaster Relief Program Activated for Coast Guard Members

Hawaii is experiencing record-breaking rain and flooding. The Coast Guard Foundation has activated our emergency disaster relief program to help Coast Guard members impacted by this storm. If you or someone you know needs support, apply now.

Emergency Disaster Relief for Coast Guard Members 
When a hurricane or other natural disaster strikes, the Coast Guard Foundation activates its Emergency Disaster Relief Program in coordination with the Coast Guard Chief Petty Officers Association (CPOA).  

What the Program Covers 
Coast Guard members can apply for a grant of up to $3,000 per year to cover emergency-related losses and needs, including: 

• Replacement and repair of essential household goods
• Home repairs, including fences, roof damage, and outdoor cleanup
•  Food and necessities
• Auto/vehicle repair
•  Insurance deductibles
•  Temporary housing
• Emergency travel

How to Apply and What to Expect 
Complete an online application and provide key details about your disaster-related needs. Once your application is received, a Coast Guard Foundation staff member will verify your information and may follow up with additional questions to complete your application. 
After your eligibility is confirmed, you will receive an email with your grant determination and the approved amount, if applicable. If your request is approved, the Coast Guard Foundation will coordinate with you to select a payment method: ACH direct deposit or business check. Approved grants are issued within five business days and processed weekly, with funds sent out each Friday.

Eligibility 
The calendar year 2026 program is open to: 

• Active-duty Coast Guard members
• Active-duty Coast Guard reservists
• Civilian Coast Guard employees

A Coast Guard member/household is eligible for a maximum of $3,000 in emergency disaster support annually. If you are impacted by more than one storm, please be aware that the max grant is $3,000/year. If you received a grant for less than $3,000, you may apply for a second grant not to exceed $3,000 per person/household per year.  

Our 2026 emergency disaster relief program is activated in response to the following natural disasters. 

• Hawaii Flooding (March 2026)

Members may apply for assistance up to three months after a natural disaster.  In this case, we are reviewing requests for these two weather events from 2025 until April 1.
•    California Flooding, Mudslides (December 2025)
•    Pacific Northwest Flooding (December 2025)

For Assistance 
Ms. Sage Williams, Program Manager,  
swilliams@coastguardfoundation.org 
860-535-0786

How You Can Help 
Thanks to the generosity of our Coast Guard Foundation community, we’re ready to respond when disaster strikes. Your gift provides direct relief, restores stability, and reminds Coast Guard families they are never alone.

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Top Image credit: National Weather Service Hawaii, March 16, 2026