March Service-Backpacks for Veteran's Helping Hand

"Helping Homeless Veterans Help Themselves"

Veteran's Helping Hand was created by Sandy Walker, a Vietnam Veteran who did not want any of his fellow Veterans to feel isolated or unwelcomed after coming home from war.  Sandy's dream was to open a community center that would not only provide emergency shelter, but would also provide immediate help with basics supplies such as food, clothing, and transportation. Although Sandy died before the community center became a reality, members of the York County community worked hard in his honor and opened the Mr. Sandy Homeless Veteran's Center.

Uptown York Rotary Club is honored to help this organization with their mission through our March community service project, "Backpacks for Veterans".  Throughout the month we will collect items to be used to assemble Blessing Backpacks, which Veteran's Helping Hand distributes to assist homeless veterans with daily living.  You may drop your contributions at any of our Club meetings during the month.  All Happy Dollars contributed during March will be used by the Club to purchase items to complete backpacks.

Blessing Backpack List*

Toiletries: Multipurpose wipes, Chapstick, Facial Wipes, Moisturizer, Comb, Toothbrush & Toothpaste, Soap, Shampoo, Conditioner, Deodorant, Female Hygiene Items

Survival: First Aid Kit, Water Bottle (built in filter), Hand Warmers/ Heat Packs, Multipurpose Individual Tarps, Sleeping Bags, Towels

Basics: Winter Hats, Gloves, Scarfs, Socks Tshirts, Undergarments, Socks (Spring/Summer)

Treats: Chocolate, Fruit Snacks, Cookie Snack Packs, Candy, Chewing Gum

Food & Drink: Instant Coffee, Tea, Energy Drink, Beef Jerky, Trail Mix, Nuts, Spam/Vienna Sausages, Granola Bars, Protein Powder Packets

Help Them Connect: Journal & Pen, Stationary, Stamps, Envelopes

*Please consider placing these items in a duffel bag or backpack!