FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Coordinated Assistance Network?

The Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN is an initiative dedicated to enhancing the delivery of social services. The mission improves underserved lives by connecting communities with initiatives to foster a more economically secure and equitable future.

Who can apply to the Coordinated Assistance Network for help?

The Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) is an inclusive applicant community, open to individuals of all races, ethnicities, genders, ages, religions, and sexual orientations seeking services. Anyone who fits these descriptions is considered an "Applicant" for support. CAN specializes in delivering & connecting Applicants with a wide range of nonprofit organizations to meet their needs.

Who are the Partner Organizations in the CAN?

Partner organizations within the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) collaborate both independently and collectively to provide a wide range of services to Applicants. By participating in CAN, organizations of all sizes can work together to connect Applicants and their families with the most suitable Resources to meet their needs. All partner organizations within the community are carefully vetted and approved by CAN and its advisors. CAN maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any unethical or inappropriate activity by nonprofit participants or Applicants.

As a member of the CAN is my personal information safe and secure?

When you register on the HIPAA, HUD & ADA compliant CAN, your personal information is only available to authorized staff from participating partner organizations. Your name and personal details are never sold, shared, or used outside of CAN and can only be viewed or shared with your explicit permission. You may only enroll in CAN once. After submitting your application and required documentation, there is no need to re-enter your information unless your details change and your profile requires updating. Security for the CAN platform is provided by NTT Global, ensuring the highest level of protection.

What documentation will I need when I apply and who will see it?

1) All documentation is for verification and education purposes only. Your documentation will be shared with the partner organization(s) who you authorize to view it, If it is required by CAN or a CAN partner in order to provide a service or assistance.

2) All submitted copies should be clear and legible. You may scan, upload and store them when applying.

3) Some additional information may be needed by partner organizations to assist you. Please frequently check your dashboard for messages or requests for information.

How will I know the status of my request and which organization is helping me?

The status of your assistance request is a priority for the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN), and the goal is to provide accurate and timely updates regarding your request. CAN partner organizations will update your status as soon as they have reviewed or acted on your submission. Please note that some requests may take longer if additional information is required. In certain cases, the nonprofit organization handling your request may need to reach out to you for further details. You will always have access to view the real-time status of your request through your CAN member profile and dashboard.

May I use the Coordinated Assistance Network more than once?

Yes. You may apply for assistance as your needs and circumstances evolve. It is essential to keep your member profile updated with the most current information to ensure that we can accurately match you with the appropriate programs for your request. The goal of the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) is to provide support and services that promote independence. Each assistance request contributes to your overall application history, which is accessible only to nonprofit providers. While you may engage with multiple organizations for various needs or services, please remember that you must submit a separate application for each request.

Am I guaranteed help when I apply to the CAN?

No. While the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) is one of the most effective and efficient ways to apply for assistance, there are no guarantees that every request will be fulfilled. However, you can be assured that every request will be posted on the network and undergo a thorough review and consideration by the partner organizations equipped to assist Applicants.

There may be instances where a request does not align with the current programs offered by the CAN or nonprofits utilizing the CAN. In such cases, Applicants are encouraged to remain engaged as new nonprofits and programs are continually added to the community. All assistance requests are reviewed and prioritized based on the capacity to fulfill them. It is important to note that participating partner organizations have limitations on resource allocation, programs often change and the Resources must directed to areas of greatest need in alignment with their individual missions and bylaws.

Why does the CAN ask for so much documentation?

The Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) ensures that every request received can be vetted and verified by its partner organizations. CAN does not have direct access to your records without your consent. The network's ability to provide the necessary assistance is entirely dependent on the accuracy and completeness of your application and the current programs offered by the CAN and its nonprofit partners.

Will I need to register with every organization in the Coordinated Assistance Network?

No, each organization utilizes the application system provided by the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN). Individual organizations customize their specific intake application, and they may ask some additional questions that others do not. You only need to complete the profile registration once.

I need help right now, what do I do?

To begin, please apply to the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) here. It is important to clearly communicate the urgency of your needs in your request. All applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis; therefore, if you are facing an eviction notice, a housing crisis, or any other critical situation, please be sure to include this information in your application. You will have sufficient space to detail your specific circumstances, which will be reviewed by the relevant nonprofit organizations. Please completely fill out your profile as best you can, so providers have all the available information in front of them.

Can you send funds directly to me?

No, the Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) partner organizations do not send direct funds to Applicants. As part of the assistance process, partners must verify specific information related to each request and, when applicable, will send funds directly to the service provider or payee where applicable.

How is the Coordinated Assistance Network made possible?

The CAN is made possible through donations from the American public, corporate sponsors, and foundation grants related to the CAN mission, and others invested in improving lives. We do not exist without the incredible generosity of our Funders and people like you.

Who created the CAN and why?

The Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) was founded by VeteransPlus, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to delivering financial empowerment through solutions for Veterans, active military personnel, survivors, caregivers, and their families (referred to as Applicants). Initially launched in 2011 as the "Yellow Ribbon Network" (YRN), CAN was established through partnerships with various aid organizations, aiming to create an online community that matched Applicants with assistance organizations while preventing the misuse of charitable aid. During 2020, the leadership decided to expand the reach to all Americans in need and over the years, CAN has facilitated the delivery of millions of dollars in aid to Applicants and families across the United States.

In May 2022, the Yellow Ribbon Network was rebranded as the Coordinated Assistance Network to reflect this expanded mission.

Are my donations tax deductible?

Yes, your donations are 100% tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. The Coordinated Assistance Network (CAN) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, with a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) of 26- 4702901. Within the network, a personal donor dashboard will enable you to track your contributions and view the total amount donated, helping you maintain up-to-date records. For further inquiries, you can reach the CAN via email at [email protected].