Commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic (SURFLANT) will head the 2017 Hampton Roads Area Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (NMCRS) annual active-duty fund drive, March 1.

The commander's intent for the drive this year, which will continue throughout the month of March, is to make 100 percent meaningful contact with every active-duty person at each command.

"This year our goal is to ensure each and every Sailor has the information they need to make an informed decision about supporting the fund drive," said Rear Adm. Patrick Piercey, commander, Naval Surface Force Atlantic. "NMCRS provides outstanding assistance that our Sailors can use in times of need. By supporting NMCRS, you are directly supporting your shipmates."

Established in 1904, the mission of NMCRS has been to provide -- in partnership with the Navy and Marine Corps -- financial, educational, and other need-based assistance to active-duty and retired Sailors and Marines, their eligible family members, and survivors. NMCRS provides need-based financial assistance in the form of interest-free loans and grants, as well as scholarships and interest-free loans for education to those who qualify.

"Behind the scenes, we're working as the regional coordinator to train all sub-area coordinators to ensure they have 100 percent meaningful contact with their Sailors and Marines," said Cmdr. Oscar Moreno, assistant NMCRS regional campaign coordinator. "Education on the services that NMCRS provides is key when asking Sailors and Marines to give."

Last year, NMCRS provided more than $45 million in financial assistance in the form of interest-free loans and grants, while the fund drive contributions to the society were approximately $11 million.

For more information on NMCRS and how to donate, visit http://www.nmcrsfunddrive.org.

For more information, visit http://www.navy.mil, http://www.facebook.com/usnavy, or http://www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, visit http://www.navy.mil/.