By simply checking a box on their income tax forms, Pennsylvania residents can now earmark a donation to area military families in need

The newly created Pennsylvania Military Family Relief Assistance Program, which has currently raised about $11,000, is in the early stages of its five-year test run.

The program marks the first time that individuals can contribute money for area servicemen directly from their income tax forms, said Butler County Veterans Affairs Director John Cyprian.

The donations are tax-deductible to the extent authorized by federal law.

Department of Military and Veterans Affairs spokeswoman Joan Nissley said other states have done programs such as this before, with success.

She said the money is intended to help all types of needs military families might face.

"A family's need could be something as simple as if a hot water heater or furnace breaks," said Nissley. "They then apply for some money."

Pennsylvania residents who are members of the armed forces are eligible to apply for financial assistance if they have served 30 or more consecutive days of active duty.

Nissley said the program was in its first stage, which was soliciting funds. The next step would be to determine the guidelines for which families would receive money first, which would be completed by late spring or early summer.

The program could begin awarding grants as soon as July, Nissley said.

Additional information is available on the DMVA Web site at www.dmva.state.pa.us.