“We have families literally sleeping on the floor”
It takes a lot of heart to risk yours for someone else’s. That’s what our military men and women do for us every day. I have a deep respect for those who serve and veterans who have served our country in the past. And I think most would agree with me that they deserve our respect and honor.
Why is it then that so many of our veterans end up homeless or needy?
Veteran George Sylvia tells us that Soldier On, a non-profit that provides a wide range of services to veterans, recently received a grant to work with veterans and families in 18 counties across New York State. The grant covers the cost of housing for veterans, but no furnishings. That means there are veterans and their families who are going without the basic furnishings in their homes… veterans without beds!
“The grant allows us to keep veterans and families in their current
homes or aide in getting them into new housing,” said Sylvia. “The
current funding provides monies for housing and no money for
furnishings. What we have been faced with is veterans and families
moving into clean, affordable housing with no means of obtaining the
basic furnishings.”
If you have a desire to give back to these honorably discharged men and
women who have sacrificially served, join Soldier On in doing good
for local veterans. You can donate beds and furniture to help furnish their homes and give them a place to lay their heads.
“Our biggest need is for the beds,” said George Sylvia. “We have
families literally sleeping on the floor or makeshift beds until
donations are provided. We have a list of nine honorably discharged
veterans in need as of today.”
Soldier On is looking for twin and full size mattresses and box springs that are in good condition (with no stains or tears) and bed frames. While beds are obviously the greatest need, these veterans also need other furnishings, including dressers, kitchen sets, living room sets (no sleeper sofas or loveseats), coffee tables and end tables.
If you can supply one of these needs, please get in touch with Soldier On. They will pick up from you, and you can get a receipt of donation for tax purposes.
“With a little help from the community we can bring dignity, integrity and respect to these veterans and their families, said Sylvia. “They deserve our best, and as a community we can make a difference.”
Contact George Sylvia of Soldier On at 413-822-3748 or gsylvia@wesoldieron.org.
