Standing for our veterans
Members of VETS Canada holding a 24-hour vigil in St. John’s
There are hundreds of veterans who avail of services through Veterans Affairs Canada.
Sometimes these veterans may be in immediate need.
That is when Veterans Emergency Transitioning Services (VETS) is there to help.
“We can help with everything from rent, food and shelter,” VETS member Mark Gauci said. “We provide support while veterans affairs gets their paperwork in order. Then we work on a long-term solution together.”
A trio of VETS members is participating in a 24-hour vigil, where they will be spending their time at the War Memorial in St. John’s, with just the clothes on their backs.
“We got the idea four years ago about coming out here for 24 hours to experience what it’s like to be exposed to the elements,” Gauci said. “So when it comes time for us to help out in situations, we have a more unique understanding.”
The vigil began at 9a.m. on Friday morning.
Gauci says the members are hoping to spread the word about their services, and says they can help improve anybody’s situation in hours.
“There are people out there that don’t have a roof over their heads,” said Gauci. “We can get in our warm car and go home after 24 hours. There are people in this country who are veterans who don’t have the same option.”