PROJECT Help Assist in Veterans Endeavors
We are proud to have the veterans from the VA Domiciliary in Tampa as our guests for dinner the second Friday of each month. It means so much to them, and the blessings we receive as we serve them are beyond measure. As a token of our appreciation we are taking monetary donations to buy each of them a gift card from Wal-Mart to purchase something they want for Christmas. We will be giving the gift cards to them at the Friday dinner on the 11th and hope to have most of the residents in attendance. Please make sure you stop by and say hello, wish them happy holidays, and thank them for their service.
These are some of the comments that the veterans have made: “You, this lodge, you are our family”; “you make us happy”; “I don’t eat all day waiting to come for this great food.” As you know, a couple of months ago the music started earlier than usual and they were dancing and singing, just having a wonderful time and I know it touched the hearts of all of us who were right there with them.
There are some needs for the veterans that are ongoing. I will be collecting for these needs throughout the year. As residents change, so do sizes, needs, etc. This is a basic list and I will update it as I find out and as needs arise. As always, monetary donations can always be used to buy toiletries, snacks, and underwear and bus passes. I am sure you are aware that as the government budgets are cut, this affects this program also.
Toiletries: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine products, soap & body wash, shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, razors, deodorant, lotions.
Snacks: bottled water, popcorn
Books & magazines
Clothing: shirts, pants, jackets, coats, sweaters, blouses, skirts, jeans, t-shirts, shoes.
Then, as the veterans transition from the domiciliary into the “real world", they are in need of household items such as: sheets, blankets, towels, and small kitchen appliances.
This is all for right now, and as the project progresses, we can address more items. Thank you for your help and donations. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Carol A. Cooper,
Cell: 678-458-1524
Email: ccktyn@hotmail.com.