Rotary Club of Branchburg Supports Our Veterans

Veterans in New Jersey who need assistance with housing, clothing and financial aid have found a friend in the Branchburg Rotary. The club has worked annually to underwrite some of the services offered by several non-profit groups like “Welcome Home Vets of NJ,” The Veterans Network of NJ”, Front Line Arts, Horses for Forces, and Operation Jersey Cares who offer direct assistance to our vets. Despite the fact that the pandemic has kept club members from conducting any major fundraising events, their solicitation efforts this year made it possible to collect approximately $75,000 to share with these veterans’ groups. Hopefully this year will be a banner year when we can all move a little more freely.

Looking forward to the warmer days in 2021, when the Covid virus may be under control, Branchburg Rotary plans to get back on track and sponsor its Annual Family Fun Day and Veterans Appreciation Day on June 12 at the Central Jersey Regional Airport at 1034 Millstone Road, Hillsborough and The Motorcycle Ride and Fly on September 12 that features a scenic two-hour tour through Somerset and Hunterdon Counties followed by food and beverages at the end of the tour. Both of these activities are great family events.

Throughout the summer you will find club members in Somerville next to Alfonso’s Trattoria on Main Street in Somerville where they will be selling raffle tickets to benefit this veteran project. The club has purchased six Giant LaFree E+ 20MPH Step Through bikes as prizes. These electric bikes are designed for commuting to work and/or cruising on country roads on the weekend. Electric bikes make it easy for anyone at any age to get some exercise. The club hopes that these bikes broad appeal will help them raise a great deal of money to help our vets.

If you are interested in sponsoring either of these events call John Shockley, Branchburg Rotary President at 732-522-6178. Donations can be sent to Branchburg Rotary, 189 Homestead Road, Hillsborough, NJ 08844. Please write Vets in the memo line of the check.