Mission Support
We're here to support your mission — whether that means getting to a better place, connecting to your benefits, finding employment, or anything else you need to thrive. No veteran or first responder faces hardship alone.
Patriot Donation Services
Community-Driven Donation Pickup
Patriot Donation Services provides program‑fee based donation pickups for residents and businesses across Jersey, Madison, and St. Clair Counties. Whether you're decluttering, moving, or simply wanting to give back, our team will pick up your donated items directly from your home or workplace.
You choose where your items go — Salvation Army, Savers, Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, another nonprofit of your choice, or directly to a local family in need. All program fees support the Riverbend Patriots Meal Kit Program and help sustain our nonprofit operations.
Small Pickup
Fits in the trunk of a compact car
$25
program fee
Medium Pickup
Fits in the back of a small SUV
$45
program fee
Large Pickup
Requires a large SUV or cargo van
$75
program fee
⭐ Request for Assistance (RFA) Program
Because no one should have to navigate life's challenges alone.
The Riverbend Patriots RFA Program is our community's safety net — a place to turn when you're overwhelmed, stuck, or simply need someone in your corner. Life doesn't come with a roadmap, and the systems we rely on rarely talk to each other. That's where we step in.
Connection & Navigation
We help you connect with the right agencies, resources, and programs — and we stay with you through the process.
Notice: Riverbend Patriots does not provide direct cash assistance. We connect participants with existing community resources, benefits, and programs — as well as our own in-house programs (Meal Kit, PTAP, Mission:Rebuild, and Patriot Donation Pickup).
Accountability & Check-Ins
A steady, judgment-free accountability partner who checks in weekly, celebrates progress, and keeps you moving forward.
Goal Setting & Planning
We help you identify goals, break them into manageable steps, and chart a clear path toward success.
Who It's For
The RFA Program is designed for veterans, first responders, and families who:
- ✓Feel overwhelmed by complex systems
- ✓Need help coordinating multiple services
- ✓Want someone to walk alongside them
- ✓Benefit from structure, encouragement, and follow-through
- ✓Are ready to take steps toward stability, healing, or growth
Our Approach: We meet people where they are — with dignity, patience, and practical support. Every RFA is handled with care, confidentiality, and a commitment to helping you move forward at a pace that works for you.
Meal Kit Program
Pantry meal kits for families up to six members
Our Meal Kit Program will provide highly subsidized pantry meal kits designed to feed families of up to six members for 14 days. Check back soon for details on how to apply.
Mission:Rebuild
Home Repair & Renovation Program
Mission:Rebuild is a targeted home repair and renovation program serving families of service members, veterans, and first responders who need essential improvements to maintain safe, functional living spaces. Each year, our volunteer-powered crews complete 2–3 high-impact projects—restoring critical areas like bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and mobility access points. Mission:Rebuild provides labor at no cost to the family, with materials supported through grants, donations, fundraising, or partner contributions when available.
This program operates through collaborative partnerships with local businesses, trade groups, schools, students, and fellow nonprofits—uniting skilled professionals and community volunteers to deliver meaningful, life-changing home improvements.
Due to the hands-on nature of this program, we accept a limited number of projects each year. Applications are reviewed based on need, safety concerns, and volunteer availability. Early submissions are strongly encouraged.
Home Repairs
Roofing, plumbing, electrical, and structural fixes
Accessibility Mods
Ramps, grab bars, and mobility adaptations
Volunteer Crews
Skilled trades volunteers serve at no cost to families
PTAP – Transportation Assistance
Patriot Transportation Assistance Program
PTAP is a group transportation assistance program serving families of service members, veterans, and first responders. Each month, our team provides small-group shuttle trips—transporting 3–4 riders per trip—to essential service providers such as VA regional offices (benefits), county VAC offices (application assistance), and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) American Job Center for workforce support.
These scheduled shuttle days ensure that individuals can reliably access benefits, employment resources, and administrative services without facing transportation barriers. Arrival and departure times vary based on route, demand, and volunteer availability.
Important Notes
- •RFA Program participants may receive additional transportation assistance on a case-by-case basis. For ongoing transportation needs, PTAP can also help individuals obtain local bus passes to support regular travel.
- •For VA medical appointments, riders should schedule with the local DAV van first. PTAP supports VA walk-in administrative services and provides supplemental transportation when DAV service is unavailable or not appropriate for the appointment type.
Help Us Purchase a Ford Transit Passenger Van
We're fundraising for a Ford Transit–style passenger van to better facilitate this service — allowing us to transport more riders per trip and reach more families across the community. Every donation, big or small, helps us expand our shuttle capacity.
Resource Library
Benefits guides, legal templates, mental health resources & more
Access our curated library of resources including benefits guides, legal templates, healthcare information, and digital advocacy tools — all in one place for veterans, military, and first responders.
Support the Cause
Every dollar, hour, and purchase helps us stabilize more families and serve those who served us.