Rescue Squad Helps Previously Homeless Vets
Contributing Author: Susan Baldani, a lifemember of the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad.
During the month of October, the Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Auxiliary collected much-needed household items for previously homeless veterans residing at Valley Brook Village on the Veteran’s Administrative Campus in Lyons/Basking Ridge, NJ. As usual, the residents of Scotch Plains and Fanwood came through with abundance.
“The community response was extraordinary,” says Lila Maxwell, who is the co-president of the Auxiliary along with Judy Sullivan. “We were very grateful that our veterans were remembered and honored for their service as demonstrated by the strong support from the community.”
On Sunday, November 5, members of the Auxiliary and the Rescue Squad were onsite at Valley Brook to distribute laundry soap, dish soap, surface cleaners, toilet paper, toilet wipes, paper towels, coffee, ShopRite gift cards and other items to some of the 112 men and women residing at the independent living community.
The veterans would like to pass along their heartfelt thanks to everyone who donated. These very deserving heroes are always grateful for people giving their time and money to make their lives just a little bit easier.
Adds Lila, “On behalf of the Auxiliary, I want to extend to the community our thankfulness and appreciation for their support.”
The Scotch Plains Rescue Squad Auxiliary meets once a month, and its grass roots function is to assist the Squad in many capacities – from holding fundraisers and providing meals during crises to performing outreach to squad and fellow auxiliary members. Members also attend town functions, such as fairs, concerts and holiday events, in order to connect with the community and promote Squad interest.
If interested in becoming a member of the Auxiliary, go to scotchplainsrescuesquad.com/the-auxiliary/. For more information on helping the veterans at Valley Brook Village, contact Steve Hackenberg at 908-723-0788 or at dnea117@gmail.com.
Courtesy photo