A South Dakota-based veterans’ organization is receiving a significant boost from the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) and its network of members.
On October 9, OOIDA’s Truckers For Troops initiative presented a generous $10,000 donation to the Veterans Community Project (VCP) in Sioux Falls, S.D. The check was handed over by OOIDA Executive Vice President Lewie Pugh.
Established in Kansas City, Mo., in 2016 by four combat veterans, VCP aims to eradicate veteran homelessness. Their mission is to offer “a home of their own and individualized, wraparound support services that not only help get them back on their feet but ensure they continue standing.”
VCP achieves this through its communities of tiny homes spread across the nation. Besides their Sioux Falls and Kansas City locations, they have similar communities in Glendale, Ariz., Longmont, Colo., St. Louis, Milwaukee, and Oklahoma City.
VCP’s broad definition of a veteran as “anyone who raised a right hand and took the oath to protect our Constitution, regardless of discharge status or type of service” disqualifies it from federal funding. Hence, they rely heavily on private donations to sustain their endeavors.
John Holter, VCP South Dakota’s executive director, expressed profound gratitude for OOIDA’s contribution, noting, “We’re the little guy trying to make a difference with the homeless veterans.” He emphasized the significance of the donation, particularly because it originates from “the individual business owner or that single trucker that’s out there working their butt off.”
In addition to the financial support, the organization received 125 backpacks filled with hygiene essentials to distribute among Sioux Falls veterans. Craig Sanchez, a residential case manager for VCP South Dakota, remarked on the psychological comfort these backpacks provide, stating, “Having a backpack, from what I’ve been told, the weight on the shoulders actually helps ease the mind.”
Since its inception in 2007, Truckers For Troops has been fundraising for various veteran-related causes and sending care packages to active-duty military personnel overseas. OOIDA members have collectively raised over $800,000 to date, continuing their commitment to supporting veterans.
Source: Land Line
