Norfolk to offer food, haircuts, resources on Veteran's Day
Norfolk organizers are eager to share resources with veterans this week.
November 8, 2021Updated: November 8, 2021
By News Channel Nebraska
By News Channel NebraskaNORFOLK -- "I tell veterans all the time: you gave everything for us; let us do this for you," Amber Mandl said. She works with the Northeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership in a program called Supportive Services for Veteran Families. This year will be the program's third annual Stand Up For Veterans event, Friday at the Norfolk Public Library.
There will be free haircuts, vendors, trivia, raffles, and possibly most importantly -- information.
"I've seen a decline in veterans getting enough information, thinking that they're not eligible for that," said Juliette Reynolds, healthcare navigator for SSVF.
Resources at the event will offer information on how to get healthcare, transportation options, and even how to be buried at a National Cemetery.
"We're hoping that having the Norfolk transportation system and the veteran's system come out and tell them we can help you," Reynolds said.
Mandl noted that's not all: With about two thousand dollars from the Spotlight Grant from the Elk's Club, "We were able to go out and get hygiene supplies for hygiene baskets, put together by the Stanton St. Peter's seventh grade," Mandl said.
Veterans, their families, and people who want to thank veterans are invited to attend.
That's not the only event in Norfolk for Veteran's Day: Northeast Community College will be opening its new veterans' lounge for veteran students and the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. next Monday. Assistant registrar Karen Hoefler tells NCN she hopes it's a way they can get the information out about education benefits for veterans.
Meanwhile, the Norfolk Veterans Home will finally have their annual celebration return after a year canceled -- however, it will be smaller than usual.
It's just another reason Reynolds asks people to take advantage of public events to show support.
"This is our chance to support our veterans," Reynolds said.