STATEHOUSE - The Military Family Relief Fund may offer short-term financial assistance to qualified active-duty soldiers and their families. This fund would assist military families with the costs of food, housing, utilities, medical services, transportation, child care, education, employment and other essential family expenses. Rep. Bill Ruppel (R-North Manchester) recognized the value of Hoosier servicemen and servicewomen and co-authored House Bill 1135 to support Hoosier active duty soldiers. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 49-1. "Many families suffer hardships when a family member goes on active duty," said Rep. Ruppel. "Many times, the head of the household is the one on active duty. That loss of income can really hurt a family." House Bill 1135 would qualify armed forces service members for financial assistance as Hoosier military personnel who are on active duty for a period that exceeds 30 consecutive days during a national conflict or serving on active duty after Sept. 11, 2001. This financial assistance will be available for up to one year. The Military Family Relief Fund consists of money from several sources - state government appropriations, donations, interest, federal grants, state grants and other funds such as "Support our Troops" merchandise and Hoosier Veteran license plates. "The Hoosiers on active duty are making sacrifices for us," said Rep. Ruppel. "I believe if they serve for us, we should protect them and their family." Before House Bill 1135, assistance from the fund was only available to National Guard Reserves called up for active duty. For more information on the Military Family Relief Fund or to apply for fund assistance, please go to www.in.gov/dva/2329.htm.

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