KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. (VFW) is pleased to announce participating BURGER KING^® franchisees are set to kick off their summer fundraiser to benefit the VFW’s Unmet Needs program.

Starting on July 1, patrons are encouraged to visit any of the nearly 450 participating BURGER KING^® restaurants located throughout 15 states and donate $1 or more to the VFW’s Unmet Needs program upon checkout. Donations will be accepted until the end of the month.

Established in 2004, the Unmet Needs program assists service members and military families experiencing financial hardship by providing financial assistance grants toward basic life necessities like rent, mortgage and utility payments. Since 2007, BURGER KING^® franchisees and their customers have contributed more than $5 million to Unmet Needs, which has provided more than $10 million in aid to more than 9,000 struggling military and veteran families since its inception.

“America’s heroes and their families have come to rely on the VFW’s Unmet Needs program, but it’s the support from BURGER KING^® franchisees and their loyal patrons that helps ensure this vital program can continue to help our military and veterans’ families when they need it most,” said VFW National Commander Keith Harman. “I encourage VFW members and all Americans to support our brave heroes by adding a visit to a local participating restaurant to your summer checklist.”