Christmas is just a few days away and there’s no better time to send out a heartfelt “Thanks” to all the men and women who have served or are currently serving in our armed forces. Over the holiday season, there a numerous ways to help veterans and military members.
The holidays can be rough for anyone, but our veterans and active duty military members have it extra rough. Whether you want to volunteer your time or donate money, here are a few ways you can help veterans this Christmas:
- Adopt-a-Veteran: The Elks Lodge’s adopt-a-veteran program is geared toward helping veterans that are lonely or isolated. “Many older veterans in hospitals, VA homes, nursing homes and care centers have limited or no family nearby,” says the Elks website. “Without social engagement and positive interaction, veterans’ health can suffer.” To adopt a vet, visit elks.org/vets
- Check for corporate matches: Many employers will match employee charitable contributions. Check in with human resources to see how your employers can help boost your holiday giving. Make sure to verify that the veteran charity you want to give to is eligible.
- Volunteer your time: Throughout the Christmas season, nonprofit organizations all over the nation are in need of volunteers. Whether it’s serving food at your local homeless shelter or helping with Wreaths Across America, there are countless opportunities to help vets in need.
- Let them know you care: We all know that time and money is tight this time of year, but sometimes it’s the small acts the mean the most. You can let our veterans and servicemembers know you care by sending small care packages, especially to those active-duty military serving overseas. The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a free “Military Care Kit” with the necessary supplies for sending packages overseas, including boxes, packing tape, and customs forms.
If you want to donate money, consider these four worthwhile charities:
From our family to yours, we wish everyone a happy and healthy holiday season. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Sources:
https://www.military.com/deployment/what-to-send-someone-who-is-deployed.html
https://www.elks.org/vets/adoptaveteran.cfm
http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/
