VFW Post 1513 in Escondido, California, has been taking care of veterans and their families during the pandemic. It’s a continuation of the commitment to camaraderie and service they’ve displayed for 94 years.
As COVID-19 spread, the Post stayed connected to members and local veterans by hosting virtual “Coffee with the Commander” events. They also carried out home visits and provided food and emergency financial assistance.
Post 1513 has a Veteran Relief Fund that has been a lifeline to service members in the area for years. Donations to the fund allow the Post to offer monetary help to veterans facing unforeseen expenses or unexpected circumstances. This has included car repairs, assistance with rent and utility bills and caring for a family after a house fire.
Members of the Post and Auxiliary help with prep work and delivery for Operation Home Cooking, which provides meals once a month to students nearby who struggle with stable housing and food. It was started by member Gina Burke, who is known for her delicious cooking, in 2018.
Each year, members of the Post and Auxiliary participate in Wreaths Across America – San Diego and volunteer with the North County Veterans Stand Down (NCVSD). The four-day NCVSD event gives homeless and struggling veterans and their families the chance to receive assistance with needs such as food, clothing and shelter. It also connects them to services for physical and mental health.
For these efforts and more, the VFW is proud to honor Post 1513 and each member who is #StillServing. And we thank every Post and veteran making life a little brighter for those around them.
If you’re a veteran with a #StillServing story to share, please visit vfw.org/StillServing and submit it today.