How to Help Veterans During the Holidays
The holidays are upon us, and most people are busy getting themselves and their families prepared. There are so many tasks to accomplish and errands to run this time of year that it is easy to become distracted from the real meaning of the holidays, which is being charitable and kind to fellow people. One group that is often forgotten about during the holidays is veterans. These people who have sacrificed more than others so that Americans can have the freedoms we enjoy often need the most help at this time of hear. Here are some great ways you can help veterans during the holidays.
Provide Blankets
For all the wonderful parts of the holiday season, it also brings with it dropping temperatures. Warm blankets are always welcome items at veterans centers and VA hospitals. If you have the skill, knit one to give it a personal touch. But, for those who cannot knit, purchasing one is a great option, too.
Deliver a Hot Meal
Veterans face many struggles during the holidays. Some of them have limited budgets, some have no means of transportation and others lack good mobility. Some veterans have multiple issues that make it difficult for them to cook or otherwise provide a hot meal form themselves. Volunteering with an organization like Meals on Wheels will give you the opportunity to help these veterans get hot and nutritious meals they need.
Bring Baked Goods
Just like most people, veterans love freshly baked snacks. Whip up a batch of holiday cookies or brownies and bring them to a veterans’ center or hospital. Or, if you know a vet in your neighborhood, bring them by the house.
Offer Rides
As the age of veterans rises, many of them no longer drive. Further, many younger veterans have injury-related injuries that make it impossible for them to drive. Yet, these veterans still have various appointments they need to get to. So, offering rides to doctor’s appointments or even just to the grocery store is a big help to them. You can volunteer with an organization like Disabled Veterans of America’s DAV Transportation Network to offer your services.
Volunteer Your Time
Everyone is busy during the holidays, there is no disputing that fact. But, consider making time to volunteer at a veterans’ center or VA hospital at least once during the holidays. These places are woefully understaffed, especially during the holidays, so even giving an hour of your time will be appreciated by the staff and veterans alike. Sometimes volunteers are needed for tasks like bringing food to a vet’s room or doing some lite housekeeping work. Other times it is something as simple as spending time playing cards and chatting with a vet. Chances are, you will discover the time you give back to serve the veterans will be your favorite part of the holiday.
Helping out veterans during the holiday season is a small way you can give back to the people who have given so much for our country. Helping our veterans does not need to take up a lot of your time or money. But, when everyone works together, the impact for our veterans is huge.
Make a difference for a Military Family this holiday season! Click here to adopt a family in need