Tragedy Assistance

A serious injury, critical illness, or the death of a loved one can place enormous emotional and financial strain on Coast Guard families. The Coast Guard Foundation’s tragedy assistance program helps members, families, and shipmates access immediate support so they can focus on one another during life’s hardest moments.

This assistance helps cover urgent travel and unexpected expenses when families need to gather quickly, care for a loved one, or attend memorial services. Grants are also available for active-duty members facing the death of a spouse or child, helping ease the burden of sudden and unplanned costs during times of grief.

In 2025, 21 Coast Guard families received tragedy assistance support. Tragedy assistance reflects the Foundation’s commitment to standing beside Coast Guard families not only in moments of service, but also in moments of sorrow, loss, and recovery.