TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The pandemic has forced the cancelation of an event that’s raised awareness about homelessness for several years.
Reach Veterans Services’ Operation Vanguard usually brings volunteers together to sleep outside for several days to better understand what it means to be without shelter and food. Not only does it raise funds for the organization, but awareness for the local homeless veteran population.
Melissa Gray with Reach Veterans Services said the issue with homelessness continues despite so much focus on the pandemic.
So, the decision to cancel this years event is not one the organization decided lightly.
“We have to come up with those funds ourselves,” Gray said. “And sometimes it’s easy. We can get through it easily. And sometimes it’s very hard for us to do so. So, that’s why we hold that fundraiser to collect those funds and get those donations, so we can make sure our homeless population isn’t left behind during this pandemic.”
Gray said people can always donate supplies or money to Reach Veterans Services. Those interested in helping should contact the organization.
