Vietnam Veterans' Bergen County Chapter Makes a Difference

The Bergen County Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America recently donated $1,500 worth of ShopRite gift cards to Bergen County Executive Kathleen A. Donovan and the Bergen County Division of Veteran’s Affairs to distribute to veterans in need during the holiday season. Cards will be given to former service members who are homeless, suffering from disability, or are in economic distress.

Joe Wisneski, President of Bergen County’s Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 800, and Fran Carrasco, the group’s Treasurer, led their group on an extended fundraising drive to help veterans pay for their holiday food bill. Their goal is to give a nod of appreciation and a helping hand to veterans who served their country but have had difficulties. The Vietnam Veterans of America have been running their supermarket gift card program for several years and creating a positive change for the group they represent.

Bergen County plans to distribute these cards at the monthly “Veterans First” event, which helps soldiers cared for by the Veterans Administration or those currently on disability, and at the Alfred J. Thomas Home for Veterans, the county’s transitional housing and support service for veterans. Anyone wishing to make a donation to the Alfred J. Thomas Home can view the list of needed items at the website.

To learn more about the Bergen County Vietnam Veterans of America, visit http://www.vvachapter800.org.