Maryland Chapter Gold Star members were invited to assist with the distribution of holiday gifts to inpatients at the Baltimore VA Medical Center. Janice Chance, a regular VA Medical Center Volunteer and Donna Robinson joined other VA volunteers, and Mr. Jim Perry VA Voluntary Specialist staff member. Three of the volunteers that assisted are veterans who are also regularly scheduled volunteers. Mr. Perry is also a veteran. Annually, hospitalized patients at the three VA medical centers: Loch Raven, Perry Point and Baltimore receive gifts that are purchased with funds donated by veteran service organizations and other individuals. The Maryland chapter donated $1,500 for all three centers towards the purchase of gifts for our Heroes. The veterans received a Holiday tote gift bag that included a puzzle cubic cube, a fleece blanket, neck pillow, 12-month calendar cube and a cup printed with the word “Proud Veteran”.
Patients and staff expressed their appreciation to the volunteers and VA Staff. The volunteers and staff consider it an honor to deliver holiday gifts in hopes to bring holiday cheer to some of our nation’s Heroes that probably will not be home in time for Christmas. One volunteer, Tim, dressed up again this year in his elf outfit which was a big hit with the Heroes and staff. Neither the volunteers nor the staff were permitted to touch or linger talking with the veterans due to the Covid-19 protocols. However, the volunteers gave every hero a hearty Happy Holiday greeting and thanked the heroes for their service and sacrifice.
The MD Chapter members look forward to continuing to serve and support our Heroes and their families all year long, not just during the holiday season. We HONOR THROUGH SERVICE!
