To help make this Valentine’s Day a special one for local veterans, our Services to the Armed Forces team introduced a new event this week called Hearts for Heroes. Veterans from throughout the Capital Region were invited to a unique lunch-and-learn program, complete with entertainment from U.S. Navy Veteran Tony Haemmerle, also known as the “Yodeling Biker.”

Texas Roadhouse generously donated lunch for all in attendance, and veteranshearts-for-heroes received handmade valentines from children at The Spotted Zebra Learning Center. Red Cross Reconnection Workshop facilitators talked confidentially with participants about some of the challenges facing veterans in our community, and offered helpful resources and other information to assist veterans in need.

Each veteran in attendance left the Hearts for Heroes event with donations from the Red Cross Totes of Hope and Winter Warmth programs, too. These gifts included everything from personal hygiene and first aid products to winter hats, gloves, scarves, and blankets.

As always, it was an honor for our staff and volunteers to be able to serve those who have selflessly served our country. On Valentine’s Day and every day, we’re committed to showing local veterans our love.