What we'll do:
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Learn about Veterans, and why they need our help - content below
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Learn about CalVets and their amazing residents - more below
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Assemble valentines and gift bags -supply list and instructions here
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Join us in person at CalVets if you can!
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Drop off finished kits no later than Monday, February 12
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Keep learning and advocating for veterans - see actions below
Where the valentines are being donated:
This month our partner is Cal Vets. Their mission is:
"To serve and honor all California veterans by connecting them and their families with their earned benefits through education, advocacy, and direct services."
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We are supporting the Westside Veteran's Home of California - CalVets where they house close to 300 veterans over the age of 55. CalVets provides more than just housing, they provide meals, healthcare, activities, and events for their residents.
Many of these residents might otherwise find themselves homeless without the support of CalVets. Homelessness is a widespread problem and unfortunately veterans are more likely to be unhoused than non-veterans.
There are 1.6 million veterans in California and California has the most unhoused veterans. We know that there are many things that can lead to homeslessness such as unemployment, PTSD, physical or mental disability, and social isolation. Through this project we will assist CalVets by creating a connection through a handmade mug and scarf, plus a personalized card expressing gratitude.
They will be able to use these items again and again, but also be reminded of the care you spent to make something for them. It’s always important for veterans to feel connected and to know that people appreciate their service to their country. Whether you can join us in person or at home, these mugs and scarves are a very personal expression of our appreciation for these vets!
EDUCATION + ADVOCACY MATERIAL
For Younger Children:
These clips are great to introduce younger children and preschoolers​
Sesame Street has a host of resources dedicated to military children. Many say that it is not just the service member who becomes a veteran, but their families as well. This video can help you explore issues that military families face.
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Here is another Sesame Street video examining the separation from family that some Veterans may have experienced and how the families are impacted by time apart and combat wounds. This is geared for upper elementary to middle school students. Understanding that Veterans’ needs extends to families as well helps build greater understanding and empathy.
For Middle School Grades:
This is a general overview of why we celebrate Veterans and Veterans’ Day. Animated and short, it’s a great introduction to younger kids.
For Upper grades and adults:
This video is best suited for high school children and adults. It explores the diversity among military Veterans: PBS Video (grades 9-12)
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A high school puts on an event honoring and listening to Veterans: Voices of Veterans (grades 6-12)
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This series features mature content suitable for mature, older high school students and adults: PBS Television series American Veterans.
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“American Veteran illuminates the veteran experience with a stunning range of voices from today and across the arc of American history.”
​WHY WE'RE HELPING VETERANS
An unfortunate truth is that here in Los Angeles 3,902 homeless veterans were reported in the 2020 Homeless Count.
Options for donating your kit
Project Due: On or before December 7, 2023
OPTION 1:
Join us in-person on Saturday, December 9
OPTION 2: Drop off your kit
Drop off to LA Works Office
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Hours: M - F 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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Address: 570 W. Avenue 26 Suite #400, Los Angeles CA 90065
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We are located at the Los Angeles River Center and Gardens.
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Our offices are inside the big white warehouse building, enter where it says “Studio Arts” and find the door that says L.A. Works.
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If no one is there, leave it on the wooden bench by the door with Attn: Shayn Ferriolo.
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Drop off to Hermosa Beach:
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Email shayn@laworks.com for the address.
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