The holiday season is the best time to spread cheer among all your friends, neighbors, family, and even folks you don’t see eye to eye with on everything. As Christmas approaches, one of the most charitable things you can do is extend the merrymaking with the veterans in your community as well.
Fortunately, it’s so easy to do, whether you choose to spend time with vets, buy them a meal or two, or invite one over for a Christmas party. There is no shortage of fun ideas to lighten the burden man experience around the holidays.
Just a Few Ways You Can Spread Holiday Cheer to Vets
- Participate in Volunteer Programs – There are many ways to do this with us (see below) or through a number of worthy causes. Even if you can’t donate your time, many generous folks make pledges through the Combined Federal Campaign and other efforts. There are also “corporate matching gift” endeavors that you can do along with your employer to donate funds to needy veterans this time of year.
- Donate an Old Car – Several of the veterans we know could use help with transportation. So, if you happen to own a spare ride you no longer use, then consider offering it to a veteran struggling to get around town.
- Visit A Hospitalized Vet – Alas, as we’ve mentioned before, there are so many former service members who struggle with poor mental health and serious disabilities. Some have to undergo long-term care, which means they’ll spend the holidays in the hospital, away from friends. Therefore, one of the best things you can do is visit a VA hospital and spend time with lonely vets.
- Sing Christmas Carols – This is less common than it was in the old days, but if you’re musically inclined, then try singing a few carols for veterans and retirees. Sometimes, they might even join you in that or some other festive idea.
- Donate Other Essential Items – Many veterans could use replacement furniture, new clothes, and other consumer goods. If nothing else, it never hurts to bake delicious cookies, pies, or other hot meals for local vets.
Volunteer with SRQ Vets this Holiday Season
Don’t forget that we facilitate numerous ways to get involved and support veterans in west Florida. If you aren’t sure how you can make a difference, then reach out to us for further suggestions. We also host other terrific events throughout the year, including Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day dedications.
SRQ Vets wishes you the best holiday season. If you’d like to learn a few other ways to help American veterans in Sarasota and Bradenton, then contact us soon at 941-777-8387.
