The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center raised funds to support homeless and displaced veterans with its recent seventh annual "VA-2K Walk & Roll" event.
Each year, approximately 25,000 veterans, VA employees, and community members around the country participate in the dual-purpose event, which also encourages employee and veteran fitness.
"We need to keep ourselves healthy, so we can take care of our loved-ones and our veterans," noted VA Medical Center Director, Dr. Patricia Hall at the lunch-time kickoff. "There are a number of positive benefits from exercise, and walking is a great way to exercise, so let's get to it!"
In addition to promoting fitness by walking the approximately 1.2 miles, event participants often donate a variety of supplies and necessities for homeless veterans.
A retired Army colonel and Operation Enduring Freedom combat veteran, Hall knows the importance of community and family support for returning servicemen and women, and expressed deep appreciation for the way communities in southeast Missouri and northeast Arkansas are always there for Veteran needs.
"I am always inspired and energized by the way our community supports America's veterans, and The Home Depot is an outstanding example of that support," noted Hall.
Associates from The Home Depot volunteered to present toiletries and supplies through a grant from The Home Depot Foundation that will help over 300 area Veterans.
In fact, said manager, Simon McGuckin of the local Home Depot, "Since 2011, The Home Depot Foundation has invested more than $184 million in veteran causes, and along with the help of Team Depot volunteers, has transformed more than 29,900 homes for veterans."
The Home Depot has also supported VA's Care and Share Program, which provides ingredients and supplies for a holiday meal to over 150 veterans in need.
Across the country in 2016, nearly $400,000 in money and goods were collected to help homeless veterans.