Volunteers support veterans, families in need for Veterans Day
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) — Due to the pandemic, many Veterans Day parades, ceremonies, and celebrations were not able to go on as planned or had to be held virtually. However, one group of volunteers masked up, socially distanced, and made sure our veterans were honored.
“Today we have volunteers coming in to deliver groceries to some of our cancer clients who are also veterans,” said Claire Eastman, with LifeCare Alliance.
LifeCare Alliance volunteers got to work early Wednesday morning. They were determined to show appreciation to veterans, on Veterans Day.
“We don’t want veterans to think we’ve forgotten about them, we want them to remember and know we remember them,” said Eastman.
Fallen 15 pitched in as well. Fallen 15 is an organization that honors fallen service members. They also work with veterans in the community.
“So, we wanted to do what we could, in a safe, social distancing manner, where we can go out and support them and make sure the families are getting the food they need,” said Sarah Boreland, a Board Member of Fallen 15.
Fallen 15 members filled their cars with the groceries and went out to deliver. One of the veterans they brought food to, Clyde Eastwood.
“I’m overwhelmed,” said Clyde Eastwood, a former United States Marine Corps member when the groceries arrived at his front porch.
Eastwood’s porch was filled with food, supplies like paper towels, and a homemade blanket. The blanket was made by Nationwide Financial for Honor Flights. However, due to COVID-19, flights were cancelled for the year.
“Thank you, thank you,” said Eastwood. “I need that.”
It was a simple way to say, ‘thank you’ to all those who served, or are currently serving. Fallen 15, LifeCare Alliance, and other community partners wanted to lend a helping hand to those like Eastwood.
“Veterans Day is for all the fallen, and all who have given so much,” said Eastwood. “This is just a great blessing, because I’m on a fixed income and there’s just not a lot, not enough nickels left at the end of the month.”
The gesture of appreciation made sure no veteran went without thanks, even during these tough times.
“You never know what’s going to happen tomorrow, but you can always pray for a better outcome,” said Eastwood.
