Fort Novosel, Ala. - Army Emergency Relief (AER), a nonprofit that helps Soldiers, Family Members, retirees and survivors with emergency needs, has launched an online portal to make applying for aid, and donating, easier.
AER is a nonprofit organization that offers zero-interest loans and grants to Soldiers, Family Members, retirees, survivors, and qualifying Reservists and National Guardsmen to help support them in emergency and crisis situations.
Supporting over 30 different kinds of needs, AER can provide funds to help with everything from emergency travel to helping newlyweds get off the ground. Funds can usually be provided in the form of loans, though some situations are also eligible for grants that do not have to be repaid. This provides a good option for those in need, allowing them to seek relief and financial solutions without needing to go to off-post loan providers that may not always provide the best solution to the problem. “That’s what we are trying to avoid,” said Fort Novosel Army Emergency Relief Officer Jo Close.
AER loans are zero-interest loans that are not reported to the credit monitoring agencies. So, an applicant can get one without worrying about it hurting their credit scores. Typically, the loans come with repayment plans between 12 and 24 months, which can be paid directly by allotment. So, the applicant doesn’t have to worry about remembering to pay the bill as it will just be deducted from their paychecks.
Now, by going to https://aerprod.powerappsportals.us/ applicants can apply for assistance quickly and remotely, though going in-person is still an option. “The big difference is with the portal they can upload all the supporting documents they need and the system will tell them exactly what they need,” said Close.
Even though the system manages the application for the user, the processing of those applications is still done manually by a real person. “I want them to know it is still a real person looking at that application,” Close said. “It still has that human element."
The new online portal is also a way to donate to AER, which is conducting its annual donations drive until June 14. “Our goal for this year is (to raise) $145,000 or more, and get 25% participation,” said Close.
Those interested in donating can do so through the app, though donations will also be accepted at the AER office. Additionally, most units on Fort Novosel will have an AER representative who can also accept donations.
Close explained just a few options AER can help with, number one being Permanent Change of Station (PCS) travel and support. An applicant PCSing will often have expenses like a deposit, or first month’s rent they may not be able to afford. “If they are under PCS orders, they can get first month’s rent as a half grant, half loan, with either a lease agreement or a statement from Corvias (Fort Novosel’s local privatized housing provider)” Close said.
Applicants with car troubles can also look to AER should they need assistance. While the applicant is expected to cover regular maintenance like oil changes on their own, emergency repairs and assistance with collisions are something that AER can help with. AER loans can help cover things like the cost of repairs, deductibles, and interim transportation solutions. “Last year we did over $52,000 in vehicle repair support,” Close said.
Another top use of AER is to help cover emergency travel. If an applicant has an immediate family member far away with a serious injury or illness, AER can cover the costs of the flight. “AER will now do flights as a full grant if the distance is long enough,” Close said. Shorter distances that don’t warrant a flight can still apply for support with the cost of transportation. “We can help with the costs of getting there, that includes fuel, food, hotels, and even sometimes rental cars,” Close said.
AER is also there to help with emergency relief. AER can assist with things like natural disasters. A recent example was assistance provided to Soldiers at Fort Eisenhower when it was hit by hurricane Helene. “That (assistance) was for evacuation purposes, as well as for (recovery) after the fact.” Close said.
AER can also help with family medical equipment like cranial helmets, prosthetics, communication devices and hearing aids. “Basically, whatever Tricare is not covering, we’re helping cover that,” said Close.
Even comparatively mundane expenses can sometimes get AER support. “If it’s a Soldier’s first time moving out of the barracks, or they are newly married, we can help out with basic starter furniture like couches, tables, chairs, beds, and a crib if they are expecting,” said Close. While the loan for these types of needs may be limited to a few thousand dollars, they can still be a favorable option for a Soldier just starting out. “This is good when you compare it to the furniture stores off post and compare their financing to the (AER loan) zero-percent interest,” said Close.
For more information about AER, go to: https://novosel.armymwr.com/programs/army-emergency-relief or call the Fort Novosel AER office at (334)255-2341.
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