Citizens Honors Veterans with Vehicles and Educational Support

On Nov 11, 2024

Citizens, in partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation (MWSF), honored two distinguished veterans —Former U.S. Army Specialist Carlo Fernando Arellano and Marine Corps veteran and Gold Star widow Sarah Monahan—through the MWSF’s Transportation4Heroes program. Both veterans were awarded a payment-free vehicle to assist in their day-to-day life, along with a $5,000 educational stipend to further their professional development. Each honoree received additional assistance with transportation expenses and a year-long financial mentorship through MWSF’s financial literacy program.

Since expanding into the New Jersey market in 2022, Citizens has partnered with MWSF to award 7 homes and 6 vehicles to veterans while helping families reduce more than $556,000 in debt through financial mentorship. Additionally, 2 veteran-owned small businesses in the Bronx received crucial financial and advisory support through Citizens’ Hopes4Heroes program. Citizens has also committed $10 million over two years to workforce development initiatives, with $1.75 million specifically allocated to supporting organizations in New Jersey.

“Citizens is proud to continue its partnership with Military Warriors, through which we honor and support veterans and their families for the sacrifice they make to keep us safe,” said Danny Lee, senior vice president of the Tri-State area at Citizens. “At Citizens, we are dedicated to being a valuable partner to our communities. Veterans are honored members and leaders in our community, they deserve to have access to the resources they need to succeed, build back their lives after service and thrive.”

About the Honorees:

Former U.S. Army Specialist Carlo Fernando Arellano:
A New Jersey native and former medic in the National Guard and U.S. Army, Carlo served on a deployment to Iraq, providing critical medical support. After his honorable discharge, he pursued and earned a Master’s in Social Work and now works as a substance abuse counselor. He resides in Union City, NJ, with his wife and two children.

Marine Corps Veteran and Gold Star Widow Sarah Monahan:
Sarah is the surviving spouse of Corporal Christopher Michael Monahan Jr., who was killed in Afghanistan in 2012. She is currently pursuing a nursing degree while raising their two children and working two jobs in New Jersey.

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