More Facts About The VFW

The VFW has fought for veterans, service members and their families since 1899.

The VFW By the Numbers

1.5 million

Number of VFW and VFW Auxiliary members.

5,903

Number of VFW Posts worldwide.

Cutting Red Tape

100,000

Approximate number of veterans the VFW assisted in submitting new VA claims in fiscal year 2021.

Nearly 12,000

Number of VA claims filed by the VFW’s Pre-Discharge offices in fiscal year 2021 resulting in more than $152 million in disability compensation.

20+

Number of VFW Pre-Discharge offices across the nation, including the military district of Washington, D.C., area.

Helping Struggling Military Families

11,047

Number of grants provided to military families facing financial hardship through VFW Unmet Needs since 2004.

$5,511,205

Amount of grants provided through VFW Unmet Needs covering housing for struggling military families since 2004.

3,781

Number of military families who have received assistance with housing needs since 2004.

Improving Life in America

3.3 million

Number of volunteer hours contributed by VFW members annually.

$25.9 million

Amount donated annually to local community service projects by VFW members.

Honoring the Fallen

3.3 million

Number of VFW “Buddy”® Poppies distributed by the VFW last year.

$334,500

Amount raised through the VFW “Buddy”® Poppy program for needy veterans last year.

Inspiring Young Patriotism in Young People

29,000+

Number of high school students who competed in the 2020-21 VFW Voice of Democracy competition.

84,000+

Number of students who competed in the 2020-21 VFW Patriot’s Pen competition.

Updated March 2022
Demarcus Wells

“Getting this grant put a smile on my face. It was a huge release of stress. I am so thankful and grateful for the help.”

Air Force veteran Demarcus Wells, who struggled with a lower-back injury that compromised his civilian job as a personal trainer. The grant helped buy gas for his car and school clothes for his children.