For Veterans who have a spouse, family member, or friend who helps provide them with care and support at home and could use an extra set of hands, The Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s Respite Relief Program provides free caregiving support. 

This program supports Veterans while giving family caregivers a time for respite so they can run an errand, go for a walk, or simply relax. This free program is available to caregivers of pre- and post-9/11 active-duty service members and Veterans. 

Elizabeth Dole Foundation Respite Relief Program 

Services are often provided within the home. They can be arranged for as little as an afternoon, or for several days or weeks. Through the Respite Relief Program, a caregiver can receive 35-hours of free respite care services provided by a trusted CareLinx professional. 

Respite Care Includes:

• Housekeeping  
• Meal prep 
• Transportation 
• Companionship 
• Medication reminders 
• Bathing 
• Exercise 
• Mobility 
• Toileting 
• Grooming 

What happens after you submit an application

Once the caregiver submits an application at hiddenheroes.org/respite, the paperwork will be reviewed and the caregiver will be notified about eligibility by email within seven business days. Once notified, CareLinx will reach out to the caregiver and perform a quick, easy assessment to  match that person with the right CareLinx care provider. The caregiver will then receive instructions about how to book the respite hours. Please note, there may be a 4-6 week gap in services depending on location. 

This program would not have been possible without the support from VA, CareLinx, Generali, Wounded Warrior Project, AARP, Tranquility® Incontinence Products, Diana Davis Spencer Foundation, Bob Woodruff Foundation, and USAA. 

Apply for free respite in less than 10 minutes at https://hiddenheroes.org/respite.  

The foundation is currently only accepting one application per caregiver per year. For questions, please contact respiterelief@elizabethdolefoundation.org. 

The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on part of VA.