This Veterans Day, the American Red Cross is highlighting a little-known resource that helps active-duty service members, veterans and military families navigate emergencies and access support year-round: the free Hero Care app.

Through its longstanding Service to the Armed Forces program, the Red Cross provides emergency communications, financial assistance referrals, information and support services for military members, veterans, caregivers and their families. It is the only civilian organization authorized to verify family emergencies and relay emergency messages to military service members stationed around the world. 

The Hero Care app puts many of these resources directly into the hands of military families, allowing them to:

• Initiate emergency communications requests 24/7.
• Access Red Cross support services before, during and after deployment.
• Find information on veteran benefits and community resources.
• Locate Red Cross and VA facilities.
• Connect with assistance and referrals for challenges related to military life.

With thousands of veterans and military families across South Florida, Veterans Day presents an opportunity to raise awareness about resources that many do not realize are available in times of crisis.

The Hero Care App is available in the Google Play and iOS stores or you can text “GETHEROCARE” to 90999.