Memorial Day is a time when we come together as a nation to honor and remember the brave men and women who have served in the military. It is a day of reflection and gratitude for their sacrifices.

Unfortunately, many veterans find themselves facing homelessness and struggle to meet their basic needs. In an effort to support these heroes, the We Can Be Heroes Foundation is hosting a special luncheon for homeless veterans on Friday, May 26, 2023.

The Luncheon for Homeless Veterans is not only an occasion to provide a warm meal but also a chance to show appreciation and respect for the veterans who have fallen on hard times. The event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Clara White Mission Veterans Unit, located at 613 W. Ashley St., Jacksonville 32210. Rain or shine, the luncheon promises to be a memorable experience for both the volunteers and the veterans in attendance.

To make this event a success, the We Can Be Heroes Foundation is seeking donations from the community. There are two ways to contribute: donating food items for weekend meals and providing $15 gift cards from local stores like 7-Eleven, Dollar General, or Wal-Mart. The gift cards will be used in drawings during the luncheon, allowing the veterans to purchase essential personal items and adding an element of excitement to the event.

The requested food donations consist of non-perishable, individual servings of prepackaged or canned items with pop-top tabs. Some examples include Vienna sausages, Beanie-Weenies, beef jerky, sardines, tuna, granola and cereal bars, fruit cups, cheese and peanut butter crackers, cookies, snack packs, peanuts, and similar items. Bottled water or beverages and shower shoes/”flip-flops” are also highly appreciated. These food items ensure that the veterans have access to nourishment even after the event.

If you are interested in contributing to this worthy cause, you can email Beth Heath at [email protected] to coordinate your donation or offer assistance during the luncheon. The We Can Be Heroes Foundation has established delivery points in Clay, Duval, and St. Johns Counties for those who wish to contribute. Additionally, churches, organizations, or groups are encouraged to host collections of the requested food items, with the option to contact the foundation for pick-up or further information.

For those unable to donate physical items, online donations are accepted through the We Can Be Heroes Foundation website. By visiting their website and selecting “Donate to Homeless Veterans,” you can contribute to their efforts in supporting homeless veterans in need. If you prefer to send a check, please address it to the We Can Be Heroes Foundation at 14286-19 Beach Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32250.

Supporting homeless veterans goes beyond providing a meal or a gift card. It is about recognizing their sacrifices and showing them that their service is not forgotten.

As Marcus Tullius Cicero said, “Poor is the nation that has no heroes, but poorer still is the nation that, having heroes, fails to remember and honor them.”

By coming together as a community and supporting events like the Luncheon for Homeless Veterans, we demonstrate our gratitude and respect for those who have served our country.