With Christmas right around the corner, holiday cheer continues to spread throughout West Michigan.
Michigan Veterans Homes announced their "Make a Veteran Smile" campaign Wednesday, encouraging Michiganders to send cards or letters to veterans.
- Veterans and Military Families Month:Michigan recognizes veterans, military families throughout November
“The ongoing pandemic has limited attendance at our activities and led us to be more cautious about attending large community gatherings,” Sarah Johnson, volunteer and donations coordinator for Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti, said. “Sending a letter or card to our members is another way the community can share appreciation and support for veterans around the holidays.”
Some guidelines for cards and letters, according to Michigan Veterans Homes, include the following:
- Include a personal note in each card
- If you have an envelope, do not seal it
- Use large writing and dark ink
- Large format cards or banners that can be displayed or hung are acceptable
- Standard paper food tray liners with coloring or messages are a great alternative to cards and letters
“These cards make a real difference in the lives of veterans who have fought and sacrificed for our freedom,” Tiffany Carr, community engagement coordinator for Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH), said. “For some of our members who do not have close friends or family, this might be the only message they receive around the holidays.”
- Veterans Day: U.S. military veterans honored across West Michigan
Cards and letters can be addressed to ATTN: Make a Vet Smile, and can be mailed to the following locations:
- Michigan Veteran Homes at Chesterfield Township at 47901 Sugarbush Rd., Chesterfield Township, MI 48047.
- Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids at 2950 Monroe Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505.
- Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti at 425 Fisher St., Marquette, MI 49855.
For more information about supporting Michigan Veterans Homes with a donation, contributing to the charitable support fund, or donating to help fund a capital campaign, contact Ryan Engle, director of development and strategic engagement at Michigan Veterans Homes, at his email here.