As part of DVNF’s Health & Comfort program, we help stock various veterans’ shelters with clothing and supplies they need to support the veterans who visit seeking support.

In some cases, it can be in the middle of an emergency. This was the case recently when we sent a shipment to Albany, NY to the Veterans Miracle Center. They keep a free “store” that veterans can visit to get common supplies they often struggle to afford.

DVNF’s shipment happened to come at a critical time. According to Barry Feinman, the organization’s administrator, January and February not only brought cold temperatures, but it also brought several fires in the region.

In one evening alone, seven veterans lost their homes and all their possessions.

Feinman explained how the shipment helped:

The day after the fire, the VMC was called upon to clothe the families and provide personal hygiene items for the Veterans and their families In all, we assisted 18 people from one fire. In addition to the blankets, through your donation to the VMC, we could provide each person with a crisis care package, warm socks, hats, gloves, and scarfs. Since the VMC does have coats in stock during the winter months our Veterans were all equipped to face the remainder of winter with everything they needed to stay warm.

DVNF supplied the VMC with a shipment valued at nearly $170,000. It contained Comfort Kits, blankets, jackets, other assorted clothing items as well as many first aid items.

“On behalf of all the Veterans, Active Duty Service Members and their families the VMC extends a sincere thank you to DVNF for the very generous donation.”

On Monday, March 13, DVNF, in conjunction with the Detroit VA and because of an incredible donation from Jos. A. Bank clothiers, was able to participate in a “Suit Up” event to get transitioning veterans ready to reenter the civilian workforce.

At the event, 110 Veterans were able to get a suit or other professional clothing, along with a $50 Visa gift card from DVNF to cover the cost of some of the alterations, that will prove useful as the attend this weekend’s military job fair at the Detroit VA.

This event followed the first “Suit Up” on February 25^th. The first event had light attendance due to poor weather. In addition, they had to use an alternate location due to construction near the Detroit VA.

How this made a difference to veterans

Joe Sattler of Marine City was a Helicopter Pilot in the Army. He is confident that he’ll be able to transition into executive management after recovering from a hip injury he suffered while on active duty.

Kevin Smith of Detroit told us he hoped to have a good interview with Ford Motor Company at this Saturday’s job fair. He said he knows the suit we gave him should help impress the recruiter. Kevin is a Navy veteran.

Reza Tatum, a disabled Army veteran from Detroit, has been an auto mechanic. However, he’s now hoping to get into automotive design.

Phil Ackley, a Marine from Detroit, appreciated receiving the first suit he’s had in a long time. He said he’s excited for the chance to try and land a supervisory position in the medical maintenance industry.

Jim Miller from Leonard, MI was an Army Chaplain and is currently working in the medical field. Unfortunately, his job is 60 miles from his home. He’s hoping to find a new job a little closer to his home and family.

Due to heavy snow in the DC area, the DVNF offices will be closed on Tuesday, March 14th. The office may remain closed on Wednesday as well, depending on the condition of the roads. If you need to reach us, please send an email to info@dvnf.org.