Central Texas Veterans Health Care System
Veterans to receive gifts from VA volunteers
December 21, 2010
Temple, Texas – Santa will arrive two days early this year for Veterans at the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System in Temple and Waco, as VA volunteers and staff gather December 23 to deliver gifts and fruit to patients.
“The gift distribution is just one way for us to help our veterans celebrate the holiday season even though they are away from family and friends in the hospital, community living center, domiciliary, or here for an appointment.” said William F. Harper, M.D., Acting Director for the Central Texas Veterans Health Care System. “As we continue to focus on Veteran centered care, our goal is to create an atmosphere for our Veterans where they feel this is their home away from home especially during this special time of the year.”
Veterans will receive items from their wish list, so their gifts could include a sweater, cologne, sweat suit, knitted cap and gloves, or socks plus canteen books and more.
“Through the generous donations from individuals and Veterans organizations, our Veterans will have presents this Christmas.” Harper said. “We want our Veterans to know they are important to us and are not forgotten during this special holiday season. It’s one way for us to thank them for their service to this great nation.”
MEDIA ADVISORY – two opportunities to cover the story:
1. Temple VA Medical Center: At 10 a.m. on Thursday, December 23, volunteers and staff will gather in Room E121, Building 162 to collect items for the gift distribution to patients at the Olin E. Teague Veteran’s Medical Center, 1901 Veterans Memorial Drive in Temple.
2. Waco VA Medical Center: At 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, December 23 volunteers and staff will meet in Room 112 in Building 5 at the VA Medical Center, 4800 Memorial Drive in Waco.
Media wishing to attend should call Deborah Meyer at 254-534-0304.
