Maryland Chapter Gold Star members were invited to assist with the distribution of holiday gifts to hospitalized veterans at the Baltimore VA Medical Center. Janice Chance, a regularly scheduled volunteer at the VA Medical Center represented the MD Chapter. She joined other VA volunteers, Mr. David Selvinsky, VA Voluntary Service Specialist & US Air Force Veteran and other VA Staff members. Most of the volunteers that assisted are veterans who are also regularly scheduled volunteers. Annually, hospitalized veterans 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 toward the purchase of gifts for heroes at all three centers. The veterans received a Holiday tote gift bag that included the following items: a stress ball, toiletries, neck pillow, socks, gloves, hat, scarf, calendar, and a weighted blanket.
One veteran volunteer, Tim, dressed up again this year in his elf outfit, Cynthia Davis , the 2024 volunteer of the year dressed up in a Grinch costume and Santa also spent time visiting the veterans which was a big hit with the Heroes and staff. U. S Army Veteran Anthony Mckenna and six of his daughters played Christmas songs on all of the inpatient units as the volunteers delivered the gift bags that helped to bring additional joy to our heroes and staff.
The 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. The MD Chapter mothers are looking forward to continuing to support our heroes throughout the year.
