When troops come back from Iraq and Afghanistan, they’re facing a whole new set of challenges at home. At the top of the list (with PTSD) is the ability to find employment and to stay employed. This is especially true for younger veterans who served in the years following the Sept. 11 attacks. The unemployment rate for remains higher than non-veterans. As a result, thousands of military families are facing foreclosure, eviction and other financial difficulties.
To help local Veterans in need, Arizona residents are invited to purchase a special Salvation Army yellow ribbon at any Bashas’ or Food City grocery store during the month of May. All donations made at the register will provide emergency food boxes, rental and utility assistance and other social services for Arizona Veterans who need it the most.
“Bashas’ Family of Stores has run this donation campaign for several years, and customers have been very generous,” said Lt. Colonel Joe Posillico, Southwest Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army. “Previous donation campaigns have made an impact on several programs including one that fights chronic homelessness among veterans. We are grateful the stores continue to serve as outlets for donations as we work to improve the lives of those who have served our country.”
The “Help Veterans at Home” drive runs now through Saturday, May 31 at all Bashas’ and Food City locations in Arizona.
“We’re delighted to partner with The Salvation Army and US Airways to support our hometown heroes,” said Kristy Jozwiak, Director of Communications for Bashas’ Family of Stores. “We’re looking forward to doing our part to improve the lives of our local Veterans. After all of the sacrifices they’ve made to protect the freedoms we enjoy, it’s the least we can do.”
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army has been serving Arizona since 1893 without discrimination. Through a broad array of programs the centers provide services to the homeless, working poor, children, youth, addicted, elderly and abused. The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. For more information, please visit www.salvationarmyphoenix.org