CMD Foundation – Military Department Support Fund (MDSF) Grants
Mission
To enhance the readiness, resilience, and well-being of California Military Department Servicemembers, their families, and affiliated programs by providing financial assistance and funding initiatives that strengthen morale, welfare, recreation, youth development, historical preservation, and emergency relief.
Vision
To be the trusted foundation of support for the California Military Department, strengthening resilience, preserving legacy, and investing in those who serve California.
Scope
The California Military Department Foundation, also known as the Military Department Support Fund (MDSF), is a donation-supported program authorized under California Military and Veterans Code Section 412.5. The Foundation exists to support the California Military Department through a wide range of authorized programs and initiatives.
Areas of Support
- Military Family Relief Grants – Emergency financial assistance for eligible Servicemembers (ARMY, AIR, CSG) and their families facing unforeseen hardship
- Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Grants – Funding for morale events and initiatives that strengthen organizational cohesion and readiness
- Youth and Community Programs – Special initiatives that build leadership, resilience, and stronger communities
- Historical Preservation and Museums – Efforts to preserve and share the history and legacy of the California National Guard
- Special Programs and Strategic Initiatives – Projects that directly support the mission and well-being of the California Military Department
Accountability and Stewardship
Every request is reviewed for legal permissibility, mission alignment, and funding availability. The Foundation operates with strict oversight, transparency, and accountability to ensure contributions are used responsibly and effectively to support those who serve California.
Military Family Relief Grant Program
Military Family Relief Grants provide emergency financial assistance to eligible California Military Department Servicemembers and their families experiencing an unforeseen hardship. Grants are intended as a last-resort resource, and applicants must first contact a Military and Family Readiness Specialist (MFRS) to explore eligibility criteria and other available assistance.
Due to the nature of this program, each application is carefully reviewed to ensure assistance is provided to those with genuine need. The process is thorough and requires financial information and supporting documents. Applicants should be prepared to explain the circumstances that led to the hardship and their plan for moving forward.
Who May Apply
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Current Servicemember within the California Military Department (ARMY, AIR, CSG) in good standing.
- California resident
- Completed at least 2 years of qualifying military service while assigned to the California Military Department.
- Qualifying service is defined as; A full-time or actively drilling member of the department. Initial Entry Training does not qualify as eligible service for purposes of this grant.
- A custodial parent or legal guardian may apply on behalf of an eligible dependent, when applicable.
What the Grant may cover
Family Relief Grant funds may only be used for approved essential needs, including:
- Food
- Housing
- Childcare
- Utilities
- Medical services
- Medical prescriptions
- Insurance
- Vehicle-related payments
Need Help?
Contact your Military and Family Readiness Specialist (MFRS) through the Family Programs page under the Programs and Services menu or call 1-800-449-9662 for assistance. All Military Family Relief Grant applications must be submitted through your assigned MFRS; the MDSF does not accept applications submitted directly by applicants.
MWR Grant Program
The CMD Foundation provides grant support for approved MWR type initiatives that strengthens readiness, resilience and fosters esprit de corps across the California Military Department.
What MWR Grants May Support
MDSF MWR grants may be used for activities that promote morale, welfare, recreation, unit pride, and esprit de corps.
MWR grants may not be used for:
- Operational expenses
- Training-related costs
- Equipment/property
- Military Family Relief requests, which are facilitated separately through Family Programs
Application Window
MWR grant requests may be submitted on a rolling basis during the State Fiscal Year: July 1 – June 30
Requests must be submitted at least 8 weeks before the event or date funds are needed to allow for review, approval, and payment processing.
Planning Ahead
Grant requests typically increase from October through January. Requestors are encouraged to plan ahead and submit requests early to ensure adequate processing time and maximize funding availability.
Grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted or applications can no longer be accepted.
Who May Request Funding
Requests may be submitted by a California Military Department member, organization, or program, including:
- California Army National Guard
- California Air National Guard
- California State Guard
- Civilian Employees of the CMD
- Cadet or youth programs
Grant Amounts
Grant amounts are approved on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on available funding, request type, size, and overall demand.
Examples of general funding:
- 50–150 people: $1,000–$1,500
- 200-300 people: $2,500
- 300+ people: $3,000–$5,000
Multiple Requests
Organizations may submit more than one request during the fiscal year; however, previous approvals and pending requests may be considered when reviewing future submissions.
Use of Other Funding Sources
Requestors are encouraged to use other available funding sources when possible, including federal MWR or unit funds. Using multiple funding sources does not prevent a requestor from applying for MDSF support, and it helps preserve limited MDSF resources for broader use across the CMD.
How to Apply
Submit a complete MWR grant request through our link at least 8 weeks prior to the event or funding need. Requests will be reviewed for eligibility, authorized purpose, funding availability, and alignment with the foundation’s mission.
For questions or assistance, email: mdsf@cmd.ca.gov
Submit your request here: California Military Department Foundation Grant Request Form
Allow 2-3 business days before inquiring about your request at mdsf@cmd.ca.gov.
Tax Information and Grant Payment Requirements
The California Military Department Foundation (CMD Foundation), also known as the Military Department Support Fund (MDSF), processes grant payments in accordance with state and federal requirements. Payments are issued by printed check only and cannot be processed until all required documentation is received. Incomplete or incorrect forms may delay payment. Grant recipients and donors are encouraged to consult a qualified tax professional regarding tax obligations and the deductibility of contributions.
Military Family Relief Grant Payments
These forms are required before payment can be issued to recipient.
- IRS Form W-9 – Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification
- STD 204 – State of California Payee Data Record
Military Family Relief Grants are generally considered taxable income, and recipients should consult a tax professional regarding individual tax implications.
MWR Grant Payments
These forms are required before payment can be issued to recipient
MWR grant payments are generally not considered taxable income to the requesting unit/custodian of funds.