Happy Holiday Season to you all! For most of us, December is an exciting month full of events and get-togethers with those we love and enjoy spending time with. But, for some, the month of December is extremely lonely.
At Operation Welcome Home we are working to combat that loneliness by collecting cards and letters to be distributed to veterans who could use some extra care during the holidays. If you would like to share your appreciation and support for veterans during the holidays, please drop off or send a card or letter to us at 452 Mylan Park Lane, Morgantown, WV 26501 by December 15. The cards and letters will be distributed to veterans who are residing in care facilities throughout north-central West Virginia.
There are so many other ways that every one of us can make an impact to combat loneliness during the holidays and every season. Here are a few ideas to incorporate – you never know what your act of kindness will mean.
- Be a Volunteer- On Thanksgiving Day last week, I had the privilege of spending the morning at Wesley United Methodist Church. I was joined by my husband, son, and dozens of other community members who worked in concert with one another to provide meals to over a thousand individuals. There are many opportunities with a variety of jobs to do. The United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties is a good place to start if you need some ideas: https://www.volunteermpc.org/
- Be a “Neighborly” Neighbor- We all have different ways that we live in the community we call home. My family and I recently moved from the Cheat Lake area and into the Greenmont Neighborhood. While our hands are full of sprucing up our century-old house, our hearts are also full of the sense of community that surrounds us. It has been great to be welcomed so warmly- but it’s fair to say that maybe not all neighborhoods are the same. Simply do what you can to make your neighborhood, however big or small, better by you being in it and getting to know your neighbors.
- Be Generous- An unexpected gift, a call out of the blue, or any expression of generosity of your money and most especially your time is one of the easiest ways to bring a smile to someone’s face.
Upcoming Events: April 15, 2023 Cupcake and Craft Beer Festival https://cupcakecraftbeer.com/
Good to know: Your life is worth it. Keep fighting and never give up. Every day, responders at the Veterans Crisis Line help people going through a crisis. Dial 988 then Press 1 to reach qualified, caring responders who are ready to listen.
Operation Welcome Home is here to serve veterans and their families in the greater Morgantown area. Let us know how we can assist you by visiting www.welcomehomewv.com or by calling 304-816-4854. See you all next month. Please have a safe and Happy Holiday Season with those you love.