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Dec. 14, 2017
Christmas came early for Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) Veterans Home residents as two local groups spread Christmas cheer to our residents.
Today, Dot’s Diners CEO Larry Katz donated 500 CD/DVDs, that were collected at his diners, to LDVA’s Southeast Louisiana Veterans Home (SELVH) to be shared among the Veterans Homes in Reserve, Jackson, Bossier City, Monroe, and Jennings, La.
LDVA Secretary Joey Strickland said this is the type of community involvement we like to see. “We want local communities to take ownership of their local Veterans Homes and this is exactly what these organizations did here today.”
According to Katz, Dot’s Diners have collected almost 7,500 DVD’s for Veterans since they started this program back in 2010.
“This is a very special time for us,” said Katz who says this annual event has become a favorite tradition for his customers. “It is our honor to have our communities get involved and help our Veterans.”
The St. John Paul II Assembly #3226 of the Knights of Columbus also gave out Christmas presents to the Veterans in the form of 150 pairs of diabetic socks, 150 t-shirts with pockets, Hershey bars, hot chocolate mix, marshmallows, and beef jerky.
Navy Veteran Gerald Smith said their organization is focused on doing charitable work that will benefit Veterans. This is the third year that their service project involved a “can shake” to raise money that is later spent on items requested by the Veterans Homes.
“We are incredibly grateful to these two organizations and the other Veterans Service Organizations that go above and beyond in taking care of our Veterans and residents,” said SELVH Administrator Brian Fremin. “They have certainly spread Christmas cheer here today.”
“Merry Christmas to you all!” said Katz prior to having the crowds of Veterans, residents, and staff members join in a few carols.
The LDVA encourages groups and individuals to reach out to our five Veterans Homes and get to know the amazing men and women who live there. ❤
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