Veterans at Coatesville VA share meal at ‘Sweethearts Luncheon’
COATESVILLE » Veterans at Coatesville VA Medical Center Community Living Center shared a meal with a loved one during the annual Sweethearts’ Luncheon Wednesday.
Events like the Sweethearts’ Luncheon are a part of the National Salute to Veteran Patients being celebrated this week and are just one of many ways members of the community can volunteer to share their time and unique talents by visiting our heroes in person.
Members of the Knight of Columbus Chester County Assembly 1873 and Council 11319 volunteered as waitstaff for Veterans and their guest who enjoyed a full restaurant experience with linen tablecloths, flowers, candles and piano player.
“It’s enjoyable to give my time to help the Veterans out,” explains Michael Wasilesky, Knights of Columbus Assembly 1873 member and fellow Veteran. “It just gives you a good feeling to come out and make them happy.”
The Knights of Columbus frequently volunteer their time and donate to the Veterans at CVAMC. They are involved in running Bingo every quarter, clothing donations, holiday celebrations and coming up in June is the annual Car Show.
For five years now, Coatesville has provided couples with the opportunity to reconnect in a cozy dining experience that is special for elderly Veterans with mobility challenges.
“It’s very meaningful to take the time to recognize family,” said Marg Graham, who is visiting her husband John. “It’s a really nice thing that they have done. It takes away from the normal hospital atmosphere and it allows people to socialize and it is just an all-around nice thing.”
More than 100,000 Veterans of the U.S. armed services are cared for every day in VA medical facilities, outpatient clinics, domiciliary sites, and community living centers.
You can make a difference in their lives with a visit or by volunteering.
Find out more at www. volunteer.va.gov and then call Jenn Lilly at 610-3847711 x4272 or email her at Jennifer.Lilly2@va.gov.