Massachusetts Taxpayers ‘Take 5, Give $5’ to Support Military Families in Need

BOSTON — Military families often face unique challenges during and following deployments. Established after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the Military Friends Foundation is able to support military families and families of fallen service members through challenging times, thanks to the MA Military Family Relief Fund, which is funded via voluntary donations from Massachusetts taxpayers. With the arrival of tax season, the Military Friends Foundation wants to remind Massachusetts taxpayers to “Take 5, Give $5” to help military families in need when they are filing their taxes this year.

“It’s important to remember that our service members continue to be deployed around the world, and their families at home often make great sacrifices to support them,” said Sarah Sweeney, Army wife and executive director of the Military Friends Foundation. “We hope that Massachusetts will continue to help us provide assistance to these families, as they have in years past.”

Massachusetts tax filers can donate via the Massachusetts state tax form by filling out Box 32E to donate $5 or more to the MA Military Family Relief Fund. The Military Friends Foundation manages these funds and offers grant programs, community-building events, and direct support to military families facing hardship.

“We encourage citizens across the Commonwealth to use Box 32E to provide much-needed support to Massachusetts military families and families of fallen service members,” said Francisco Urena, Massachusetts secretary of Veterans’ Services. “This is a critical tool in lending support to those who have worn the uniform and the families who serve beside them.”

In the 13 years since box 32E was added to the Massachusetts state tax form, the Military Friends Foundation has provided millions of dollars in direct aid to help service members in need. More than $250,000 was raised from Massachusetts state tax donations in 2018. The Military Friends Foundation is a recognized 501(c)(3) tax-deductible charitable organization.