Cape May County Veterans’ Bureau Soliciting Donations for Hospitalized Veterans

RIO GRANDE – Cape May County Veterans’ Bureau is again working with local veterans’ organizations to collect funds to purchase items for hospitalized and institutionalized veterans in need. The group is looking for financial donations to provide for personal items not covered by insurance. 
The annual trip to the Vineland Memorial Home and Haven South in Ancora is scheduled for Feb. 14. Donations can be accepted up until Feb. 12. Veterans at these facilities look forward to this visit and appreciate the kindness of those donating time and money to provide for their care and comfort.
The Veterans Valentine Program started in 1984, and focuses on helping veterans in need. The purpose is two-fold, it is not only about showing concern for their well being but also about giving them the respect they earned for their service to the country. A group of veterans and volunteers from Cape May County make the trip each year to ensure their colleagues in arms have what they need and know there are many people who care.
Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton, a veteran and liaison to the Veterans’ Bureau, stated, “The Veterans Bureau group is a team of wonderful individuals who have been visiting the Vineland Memorial Home for 33 years, and added visiting veterans at Haven South a few years ago. It is heartwarming to see the reaction from the veterans, some that are bedridden and others who for many reason don’t receive a lot of visitors. They truly appreciate the generosity and work being done on their behalf. 
“Our veterans are very important to me and to all who work throughout the year for veteran causes. Raising money and organizing this trip is part of the ongoing efforts to recognize and honor these men and women. These visits are an opportunity to talk to them and listen to their stories that serve as a reminder of the sacrifice these men and women made for our country. These men and women are true heroes, we owe them a debt of gratitude and this is one small way to let them know they are in our hearts and minds.” 
Freeholder and Brigadier General (Ret), Jeffrey Pierson stated, “All donations will be used for veterans for the purchase of toiletries and personal items for those hospitalized in the Vineland Memorial Home in Vineland. A portion of the funds will be used for the reintegration training of veterans in Haven South, located in Winslow Township.
“Last year, our goal was to raise $2,500 for each location. We would like to match that for 2018. The veterans are extremely grateful and the funds go a long way in providing them with much needed assistance.”                           
Donations in any amount are appreciated and help to make this program successful. Checks can be made payable to VFW District 17 Valentine Account, and mailed to Cape May County Veterans’ Bureau, 4005 Route 9 South, Rio Grande, NJ 08242-1911.