Cape & Islands Veterans Outreach Center is “providing essential, life-altering, life-sustaining services that empower veterans in need and their families.” Many people go about their day-to-day lives not thinking of the great need that has been rising among our veterans. U.S. veterans endure many difficulties upon returning home. Some of these include challenges related to mental health, substance abuse, post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries, separation from loved ones, recovery from limb amputation, suicide, homelessness, and much more.

In the video below, three Mid-Cape employees, who once served in the U.S. military, give their perspective on Cape & Islands Veterans Outreach Center and why we need to donate to the cause.

Because they deserve it.

There are now very few World War II veterans left, and many of those struggle still with Post Traumatic Stress because it was not recognized as a disorder until decades later. Korean War Veterans have also been left with a battle to fight, even after they returned home so many years ago. After being exposed to adverse weather conditions and radiation in combat, many of the roughly two million remaining suffer from diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and even cancer. Vietnam War veterans were never thanked for their service, because of the controversy surrounding it. “The total post-war death rate for Vietnam veterans was 17% higher than for other veterans.” Younger veterans who have been involved in more recent conflicts are unique due to the amount of times modern military members are deployed. Many recent veterans were deployed up to four or five times, which was not the case for those in previous generations.

The fact that those who have sacrificed so much and continue to suffer from the effects, even after returning home, should be enough of a reason to reach out in support. On the Cape, there is not nearly enough recognition of veterans. They are a gift to this country and to this local community. Think about all the freedoms that you enjoy every single day that aren’t even given a second thought. Those are a result of the sacrifices of these men and women, as well as those who have laid down their lives. Without them, we would not be so free and blessed.

Check out our latest Truck-for-a-Cause!

Thank you for donating.