Wreaths Across America (WAA) and MISSION BBQ are partnering to launch the “American Heroes Cup” initiative, aiming to raise funds to sponsor the 2024 National Wreaths Across America Day events.
Starting from Sunday, Nov. 12, and continuing through the entirety of 2023, every $4.99 purchase of the American Heroes Cup at any of MISSION BBQ’s 131 locations will result in a $2 donation to WAA for the sponsorship of veterans’ wreaths.
In 2022, MISSION BBQ patrons contributed $369,590 to WAA through the American Heroes Cup fundraiser. These funds supported the placement of over 24,600 veterans’ wreaths. This year, volunteers will arrange these wreaths at more than 90 participating locations on National Wreaths Across America Day, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 16.
The Perry Hall restaurant of MISSION BBQ, situated at 4132 East Joppa Rd., Nottingham, Md., will host the WAA Mobile Education Exhibit to kick off the campaign. The exhibit serves as a traveling museum, informing visitors about the service and sacrifice of our nation’s heroes and acting as an official “welcome home” station for our Vietnam veterans. This event is open to the public. The hours start at 10:30 a.m. and end at 3:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 13.
“It’s an honor to support Wreaths Across America in remembering the fallen and thanking military families for their sacrifices,” said Bill Kraus, co-founder of MISSION BBQ.
In 2011, Bill Kraus and Steve Newton inaugurated the first MISSION BBQ restaurant in a Baltimore suburb, on the same day as the 10th anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks. Their mission was to serve, honor, and extend gratitude to American heroes for their dedication and sacrifices. A substantial portion of the restaurant’s profits goes to support military nonprofit groups and charitable organizations in the community, aiding police officers and firefighters. Since its establishment in 2011, MISSION BBQ has expanded, opening 130 additional locations across 19 states.
WAA is a nationwide nonprofit organization dedicated to the year-round mission of remembering the fallen, honoring those in service, and imparting the value of freedom to the next generation. Sponsoring and placing veterans’ wreaths in nearly 4,000 participating locations serves as a way for communities to unite in remembrance, honor, and education.
Karen Worcester, the executive director of WAA, praised MISSION BBQ for their consistent and comprehensive community support and engagement. She commended their commitment to sharing the stories of American heroes, showing utmost respect to our nation’s veterans, and teaching the next generation about these values. She expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from MISSION BBQ’s customers, who uphold this mission in communities across the nation.
Source: The Trucker
