Staff Writer
The story that started with the raffling off of a diamond ring came to a sparkling conclusion on May 14 when representatives of the Maine Veterans’ Home presented a veteran in need with many day-to-day essentials as well as a couple items that make a house a home.
Aroostook Republican photo/Natalie Bazinet
Liason to the Maine Veterans Home (MVH) Board of Trustees Ray Guerrette, MVH Business Office Manager Phyllis Baker and MVH Licensed Social Worker Christopher Haskell unloaded the household items purchased for a veteran in need on May 14. The supplies totaled about $4,000 and were purchased through funds raised by the Diamond Ring Raffle earlier this year.
Earlier this year, MVH staff coordinated a diamond ring raffle that raised over $4,000 thank to the jewelry donated by Robert’s Jewelry in Madawaska.
“This was our first attempt at a program like this, and it was very successful,” said Licensed Social Worker for the MVH Christopher Haskell.
The chosen veteran, who was appreciative for the assistance, helped the MVH representatives unpack the apartment items before he hustled back to work. The items were specially chosen for him and his family to suit their specific needs. It was a tough decision to determine which veteran’s assistance application had the greatest need, but this Marine Corps veteran who’s been working 14-hour days to support his family and make ends meet won out.
While MVH staff and volunteers were able to provide the necessities (and a little extra) to the veteran in need, there is some money left over that Haskell is hoping can be used to help another veteran with fuel expenses this winter.
