The holiday season brings unique challenges and opportunities to support military service members and veterans. While some acts of kindness are simple—like sending a card to a deployed service member, inviting a veteran to a holiday meal, or shopping at a veteran-owned business—others address more pressing needs.
At VetsForever, we believe in supporting veterans not just during the holidays, but all year long. Below are some meaningful ways to donate, volunteer, and give back to our military heroes this season:
Stuff a Stocking
One way to make a difference is by participating in Holiday Stockings for Heroes, an annual donation drive run by Soldiers’ Angels. You can gather items from a list of suggestions, fill a holiday stocking, and send it to a designated address after registering on their website. Include a personal card or letter to brighten a service member’s holiday.
To participate, ensure your stocking is sent by December 7, 2024. This year, Soldiers’ Angels aims to collect 40,000 stockings for military service members and veterans.
Adopt a Veteran or Veteran’s Family
Each year, our partner, One Tribe Foundation, adopts 15 military families across the United States through their Season of Giving program. You can contribute to their gift-giving efforts by selecting items from their Amazon wish lists. Volunteers then gather to wrap the gifts and ensure they’re delivered to the families with a special touch from Santa.
Additionally, Equest’s Hooves for Heroes program is collecting 20 gift baskets for veterans who participate in their weekly mental health-focused fellowship sessions. These baskets can include thoughtful items like coffee and gas gift cards, warm hats, gloves, and tasty treats.
Donate Frequent Flyer Miles
A simple and impactful way to support members of the armed forces is by donating your unused frequent flyer miles. Many military families face challenges with travel expenses, especially when service members are stationed far from home. By contributing to programs like the Hero Miles Program through the Fisher House Foundation, you can help keep troops and their families connected during long deployments, all at no cost to you.
The Gift of Time
This time of year can be especially tough for veterans without family nearby or those in assisted living or hospitals. The greatest gift you can give is the gift of time. Consider visiting regularly, sharing a conversation, or doing activities together like:
- Playing cards or games
- Bringing homemade goodies or snacks
- Offering companionship with a chat or listening ear
- Helping with errands or sending a thoughtful card
Here are some national organizations that will help you find ways to give the gift of your time to veterans in your area:
At VetsForever, we encourage you to take the time this season to support and appreciate the veterans who have given so much for our country. Your time, kindness, and generosity can make a world of difference.