It all started with a simple request from two Veteran brothers, Bill and Mike Hackenberg. While having a discussion, as brothers often do, they hatched an idea to do a clothing and food drive for homeless Veterans. What a great idea! They contacted the Post via Facebook, and requested if they could park a trailer in our parking lot for a week, day, or whatever. We talked and found out together, we could help a couple places under the same umbrella of collecting for homeless Vets. The heat was on.
The drive netted two mid-sized SUV’s and a 6 x 12 U-Haul trailer full of winter coats, clothing, and food. A tremendous success. But the story doesn’t end there! Enter our relationship with Moving Veterans Forward and Ron Hernandez, CEO and Founder. We separated out the winter outerwear, the Hackenberg brothers donated to a local shelter the food and clothing. The Post donated $500 worth of: Weather Resistent Boots, 15 pair, 400 (yes, 400!) pairs of sock; hundreds of hand-warmers; dozens of glove; sweatshirts and pants, 10 sets. Vicki Freeman, Mary Dalton-Quilliam, and Kathy Raabe volunteered to shop then separate the donations.
The Sewing Ladies of the Auxiliary donated 35 Blankets, a hundred hats, and other items. Mary and Kathy accompanied Ron Hernandez to New Vision Omaha. It was a rewarding experience. As we’re experiencing a little spotty snow in Omaha this morning, it feels so good to know we helped thirty or more homeless veterans be warmer this winter. Thanks for the help, friends. We have also gained three new Post Members. Say hi to Bill, Mike, and Ron when you see them at the Post now. We’re happy they’re here, and that they asked a significant question we could help answer in such a way.
What’s a question you have that would affect our Veterans’ Lives? Besides partnering with Moving Veterans Forward, Victory Apartments, We are working on including Guitars for Vets and 22 Until None in our Outreach for Veterans in the Omaha area. 2021 will be an opportunity to continue this new and important part of our Post. Thank you all for the support.
 Moving Veterans Forward van filled with donations |
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 Ron Hernandez, Kathy Raabe, Mary Quilliam |
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