On June 1st, 2026, Foundation for Women Warriors proudly marks its 106th anniversary, honoring more than a century of service, advocacy, and impact for women who have served our nation.
Originally founded in 1920 as the California Soldiers’ Widows’ Home Association, the organization began with a bold and inclusive vision: to ensure that widows of fallen service members, and notably war nurses, would be supported with dignity and financial security. At a time when women’s military contributions were largely overlooked, this commitment set a powerful precedent.
In 2005, the organization expanded its services under the name Military Women in Need and in 2016 the organization rebranded as Foundation for Women Warriors mobilizing their vision into a nationwide movement focusing on enhancing the personal and economic wellbeing of women veterans and their families.
Today, Foundation for Women Warriors provides critical programs that enhance the economic stability, through financial education and support, childcare assistance, personal and professional development, alongside a community of support. In the past year alone, services reached veterans across 42 states, with expanded financial assistance programs in California, Virginia, New York, and New Jersey.
To date, the organization has supported more than 10,000 women veterans and children, while also advancing advocacy efforts that have helped shape national recognition and support women veterans.
“At a time when women’s military contributions were largely ignored, our founders made a bold and deliberate choice, to open our doors not only to the widows of fallen service members, but to the war nurses who had served this country themselves. That decision made us one of the oldest organizations in the nation dedicated to serving women veterans,” said Jodie M. Grenier, CEO of Foundation for Women Warriors. “Women have always served, long before they were recognized, resourced, or honored for it. And for 106 years, we have stood beside them. As we mark this milestone, we are proud that we are continuing to grow our reach to meet women across the country, because their service, their leadership, and their futures have always deserved that commitment.”
Later this year, the organization celebrates a decade as Foundation for Women Warriors, ten years of deepening its focus and expanding reach.
We look forward to sharing more with you in the months ahead.
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