As Veteran’s Day approaches, we are reminded of the immense sacrifices made by our veterans. President John F. Kennedy once said, “On this Veterans Day, let us remember the service of our veterans, and let us renew our national promise to fulfill our sacred obligations to our veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much so that we can live free.” This sentiment resonates deeply in Virginia, home to approximately three-quarters of a million veterans.
Gleaning For The World, a nonprofit organization based in Concord, Virginia, is dedicated to supporting these heroes not just on Veteran’s Day, but year-round. They collaborate with veteran support organizations such as the Salem VA Hospital, Veteran Associations, and local veteran councils to provide much-needed assistance. However, the need is great, and they are calling on the public to help.
Jeane Smiley-Mason, President of Gleaning For The World, emphasizes the importance of this mission: “We believe that it is our obligation to support our Veterans. They have been there for us, and now it is our turn to support them. Our goal in this effort of collecting supplies and funds during times like these is to not only provide the items that are critically needed, but to also show our love and appreciation and hopefully inspire hope for our country’s veterans in need.”
To this end, Gleaning For The World is hosting a two-day collection event on November 7th and 8th, from 10am to 6pm at Sam’s Club on Wards Road in Lynchburg. They are asking the public to donate items from their Veteran’s Supply List, which can be found at the collection site, online at gleaningcharity.org, on their Facebook page, or at their office in Concord. All donated items should be brand new, unused, and in unopened packages.
In addition to supply donations, financial contributions are also welcome. Donations can be made online at gftw.org, by sending a check to GFTW, PO Box 645 Concord, VA 24538, or by calling 434-993-3600 to donate over the phone or inquire about other ways to help. Donations can also be dropped off at Gleaning For The World’s warehouse, located at 7539 Stage Road, Concord, Virginia, Monday through Friday, from 9am to 5pm.
This Veteran’s Day, let’s come together to support those who have given so much for our freedom. Learn more about Gleaning For The World’s veteran assistance efforts at www.gleaningcharity.org.
Below is a list of items needed...