Charleston, South Carolina (WCBD) – Vehicles stretched around the West Ashley Elks Lodge parking lot on Tuesday as local veterans and their families received fresh food and winter clothing from the Soldiers Angels.
Hendrik Automotive and EP Group helped donate food given to veterans.
EP Group Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Joe Waring said:
Fresh meat, produce and canned goods were distributed. Winter gloves and hats were also given to veterans.
JoAnn Hlavac brings in a few veterans for gifts each month.
“I come from a long line of veterans, and I love veterans,” says Hlavac. “It really means everything because without them I wouldn’t be free to do this and that’s the big thing.”
Her group consisted of three veterans.
“It feels great because they are helping veterans.
“It brings me a lot of joy. I love it. I love it,” said Leonard Smith, who served in the Army.
“I’m glad the Soldiers Angels have provided food,” said another Army veteran, Marvin Williams.
Williams, Smith and Sims Jr. are just three of the 210 veterans who will receive food and clothing from the giveaway. Sheryl Kepler, an Air Force veteran, comes for help because she uses a wheelchair and cannot easily get to the store.
“I love coming to this event. And very kind,” Kepler said.
As the holidays draw closer, this day is a chance for them to not only be appreciated, but celebrated.
“During the holidays, we are doing a great deal to host special events for our veterans,” said Laura Schroeder of Soldiers Angels Charleston. “We are providing about 75 pounds of food to each.”
The Soldiers’ Angels can only feed over 200 people per giveaway and are asking for your help to increase that number.
My message to those who might be able to help is that a little goes a long way.
“Everybody can do something. Some have money, some have time. I’m retired and I have time,” Hlavac said.
Veterans who want to sign up for giveaways or volunteers can sign up at https://soldiersangels.org/.