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FFTM22 acknowledges the significant presence of veterans in the United States. As of October 2021, the country was home to 18.0 million veterans, with 8.4 million actively contributing to the civilian labor force. Within this population, an estimated 4.9 million veterans, equivalent to 27 percent, bear service-connected disabilities in the post-9/11 era. We recognize the unique challenges and sacrifices faced by these individuals, and we are dedicated to providing support and assistance to improve their well-being and quality of life.
Veteran suicide is a pressing crisis. Since September 11, 2001, over 125,000 veterans have tragically lost their lives to suicide, outnumbering the combined combat casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan. Homelessness, drug addiction, and mental illness disproportionately affect veterans after their separation from service. Combat injuries and financial insecurity further compound the challenges our veterans face. These issues, coupled with the wounds of war, demand urgent attention as they continue to claim the lives of our veterans at alarming rates every day. Together, we can make a difference.
We are passionately dedicated to combating the heartbreaking issue of veteran suicide. The statistics paint a grim reality: an estimated average of 22 veterans per day tragically lose their lives to suicide in our county. Shockingly, veterans are at a 50% higher risk of suicide compared to their non-serving peers. Disturbingly, projections indicate that by 2030, veteran suicides may outnumber post-9/11 combat deaths by a staggering 23-fold. The urgency of this situation cannot be understated. Together, we must take action to address and prevent veteran suicides without delay. Join us in our mission to save lives and provide support to our brave veterans in their time of need.
We rely on the generous support of individuals, businesses, and organizations to make our mission possible. Through various avenues, such as fishing tournaments, sponsorships, and donations, we are able to secure the necessary funds to organize and facilitate fishing outings for our veterans. Proceeds from our fundraisers go directly towards covering the costs associated with these outings through our project Operation Tackle 22, ensuring that our veterans can participate without any financial burden.
Fishing for the Mission 22 is recognized as a tax-exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. EIN: 88-3576789
