HHV Partners with DC VA Medical Center and Coca-Cola

Washington DC, September 11, 2018- September 11 is an ominous date in which our nation reflects upon the tragedy of 9/11/01 and all those who died 17 years ago. Millions of people can remember where they were and what they were doing in the moments when the news broke that the U.S. was under attack. Thousands of lives were lost within minutes, heroes laid down their lives, and people ran terrified down the streets of New York and DC. It was a terror attack that will live in the minds of millions for years to come.

Healing minds from the wounds of such terror is not easy. There is not a simple remedy for depression or PTSD. There are no pills you can take that will remove your memories, fears, and anxiety of tragedies that you have experienced. These are the some of the reasons why Help Heal Veterans (HHV) has been around for 45 years seeking out those affected by the wounds of war.

This year, HHV partnered with Coca-Cola and the Washington DC Veterans Affairs Medical Center to deliver free craft kits and Coca-Cola freebies to veterans receiving medical attention at the hospital. The day started in the VA hospital lobby with a moment of silence, people reflecting on the tragedy, and prayers. Then HHV handed out over 200 craft kits to veterans. The veterans expressed gratitude for the kits, with several stopping by to communicate how much the craft kits have helped them through their ailments. The craft kits help injured and recuperating veterans improve motor skills, cognitive functioning, manage stress and substance abuse, cope with symptoms of PTSD and TBI, while also enhancing their sense of self-esteem and overall physical and mental health.

DC VA Medical Center’s Chief, Voluntary Service, Aldean Swan, Chief, Voluntary Service said, “The medical center is thankful for the partnership with Help Heal Veterans. Together, we are working to enhance the Veteran health care experience. Community partnerships are critical to expanding opportunities to support and better serve Veterans and their families.”