2.20.2007 - 11:59pm ET

(CSRwire) MINNEAPOLIS, MN – USA Cares ( www.usacares.us), a worldwide charitable organization for military families, and Veterans Airlift Command (VAC) ( www.veteransairlift.org) a national network of volunteer aircraft owners which provides air transportation for wounded warriors and their families, announced a partnership of the non-profit organizations in order to provide comprehensive assistance for veterans and their families. The organizations will work together to provide a “one-stop shop” for all military personnel, veterans and their families in need of assistance.

USA Cares will handle mission coordination, including answering the 800 number used by Veterans Airlift Command. VAC, in turn, will be USA Cares’ “Air Force” providing the air transportation portion of support. When a USA Cares family is in need of air transportation, VAC, with its many pilots and aircraft participating across the nation, will endeavor to fill the need. Coordinated assistance will make this effort possible.

“Working together is a logical choice because we serve the same families” said VAC founder Walt Fricke, “When a potential client calls VAC, it is likely they will also be in need of other resources that USA Cares can provide.”

“This is a natural extension of our recently created ‘Purple Heart Client’ category,” said USA Cares Executive Director, Hugh Dukes. “Service members wounded in combat, and those with compelling challenges caused by service are still considered Purple Heart Clients at USA Cares.” Dukes went on to say, “We are proud of the alliance with the Veterans Airlift Command, and expect our mission to serve veterans and their families to continue to expand.”

The alliance between VAC and USA Cares will fill the gap where wounded warriors and family members are separated by great distances. Air transportation provided by VAC volunteer aircraft owners and pilots nationwide will insure that families are not separated due to lack of affordable transportation. USA Cares will not only vet the missions for applicability, but also insure that ground transportation and lodging needs are met when appropriate. This is a great-unmet need with today’s specialized medical care in select few facilities.

About USA Cares

USA Cares, Radcliff, KY based 501 c 3 charity, serves to provide military families of all branches and services with financial support, while offering direction and advice along with a caring attitude. Learn more about USA Cares by visiting http://www.usacares.us.

About Veterans Airlift Command

Veterans Airlift Command is a 501c(3) that provides air transportation to wounded warriors, veterans and their families for medical and other compassionate purposes through a national network of volunteer aircraft owners and pilots. Visit Veterans Airlift Command at www.veteransairlift.org.

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