Thrive November 2023 Vol 2 Issue 11

November 1, 2023

Volume 2, Issue 11

PNH launches annual Operation Jeeper’s Christmas!

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Coffee Social Page 10 Sully's Food & Baby Pantries Worcester, MA Page 5

Westfield, MA Page 6

Volunteers of the Month: Sully’s Crew

Sweat for Vets

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Thanksgiving Food Drive

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PNH launches Operation Jeeper’s Christmas!

by Jennifer Cesaitis

Project New Hope's annual Operation Jeepers Christmas initiative is back, continuing its mission to bring festive joy to Veteran and Military Families during the holiday season. Every year, numerous Veteran and Military Families face financial and emotional challenges, with many having their loved ones away during this special time. This leaves an emotional void, often felt around the festive dinner table or beside the Christmas tree.

Understanding these challenges, Project New Hope (PNH) steps in, connecting these families with generous sponsors to ensure the holiday spirit remains undiminished. Operation Jeepers Christmas 2023 aims to transform concerns into celebrations, ensuring everyone can experience the joy and warmth of the season.

Veteran and Military Families residing in the New England area can seize this wonderful opportunity to make their children's Christmas wishes come true. The online registration process is streamlined and user-friendly. When the moment arrives to collect the gifts, families can choose from either Worcester, MA or Westfield, MA, to pick them up. Gifts are available for dependent children up to 17, with PNH ensuring age verification through birth certificates, which are responsibly discarded post-verification. Even if families have participated in previous years, they're welcome to register again, keeping the tradition of festive joy alive.

Reflecting on the past, Operation Jeepers Christmas 2022 brought smiles to nearly 400 Veterans and their families. While this number is commendable, PNH knows the need is even greater this year. The registration process is kept confidential, allowing our esteemed Military Families to maintain their dignity while ensuring their children experience the magic of Christmas. PNH understands that pride, self-reliance, and a strong sense of independence can sometimes deter Veterans and their families from seeking assistance. Through initiatives like Operation Jeepers Christmas, PNH aims to support Veterans with respect while expressing the community's gratitude for their service and sacrifices.

Becoming a sponsor with Operation Jeepers Christmas 2023 is a heartwarming and noble endeavor. The overwhelming community support for our Veterans and Military Families consistently overshadows challenges. Those interested in sponsoring can contact Susan Wilder, PNH’s Executive Assistant.

Susan and her dedicated team ensure that the families' wish lists align with the generosity of sponsors. Together, they play the role of Santa, embodying the spirit of giving and ensuring no child misses out on Santa's kindness this year. By joining hands with Project New Hope this festive season, you're not just celebrating the holidays; you're making a difference in the lives of our Veteran and Military Families. Let's come together and make Christmas 2023 unforgettable for them.

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https://www.projectnewhopema.org/veterans-supportprograms/operation-jeepers-christmas/

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smwilder@projectnewhopema.org

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Sully’s Volunteers

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Marcia, Tom, David, Juan, Lori, Nick, Anne, Kevin, Wendy, and Bill have shown exceptional dedication as volunteers. Their commitment and hard work in sorting, inventorying, and shelving food donations have been invaluable. Their efforts have not only streamlined the process but have also touched countless lives of Veterans.

We are deeply grateful for their unwavering support and commendable service.

Thank you to each and every one of them for making a difference

Who Can Volunteer?

We are always looking for kind and caring people who want to make a difference in the world. You will be joining an enthusiastic and friendly community devoted to the highest professional standards of care. There is something for everyone who volunteers at Project New Hope!

Apply HERE - it's easy with our online application.

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Proud to serve

268 Veterans & Family members for September!

Proud to serve

301 Veterans & Family members for October!

WORCESTER, MA 70 James St., #129A Worcester, MA 01603 Open 1st & 3rd Saturdays November 4 & 18 9:00am - Noon by appointment

(774) 243-7859 Email Diane Soave: dsoave@projectnewhopema.org November 1, 2023

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What to bring: Driver's license noting Veteran, VA healthcare card, DD214, DOD military/dependant ID, CAC Card

Office Hours: Mon - Thurs 9:00am - 1:00pm Friday 9:00am - 2:00pm Page 5

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Proud to serve

329 Veterans & Family members for September!

Proud to serve

424 Veterans & Family members for October!

WESTFIELD, MA Hampton Ponds Plaza 1029 North Road, Suite 9 Westfield, MA 01085 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday 9:00am-2:00 pm Wednesday 9:00 am - Noon CLOSED FRIDAYS Call or Email today to set up your next appointment!

(413) 485-7988 Email Jordan Gaj jgaj@projectnewhopema.org November 1, 2023

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PNH welcomes back Maverick!

Come visit at our weekly coffee socials

e e f f Socials o C

Veterans

Have a coffee, share a story, connect with other Veterans.

Tuesdays 9:00 am - 10:15 am

70 James St., #129A Worcester, MA 01603

All branches, all eras welcome!

There will be NO VA claim assistance this month due to the holidays.

Will Valliere, VSO with Vietnam Veterans of America is at Project New Hope to help!

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70 James St., #129A Worcester, MA 01603 Page 10

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Thank you, The Performing Arts Connection - Sudbury, MA for donating all ticket sales to Project New Hope Inc. Non-Profit Veterans Organization The show is on November 11th at 7pm at The Performing Arts Connection 31 Union Ave Sudbury in between CrossFit and The Little Hands Academy.

Here is the link to buy tickets: https://www.ticketstage.com/T/TPAC November 1, 2023

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Thanksgiving Veterans Food Drive Thank you, to all the generous donors and ALR Chapter 204 West Boylston Riders, and volunteers of Lori, Bernie, Frank, John, Dave Melanie, Billy, Joey, Phyllis, Debbie, McKenzie and Donna who made today’s food collection drive at Market 32 a success!

With the increasing demand for food assistance and rising prices, we need your help more than ever. We’re always looking for donors, volunteers, and corporate partners who share in our mission: to provide hope and resources for those without life’s essential.

Thanks for helping make Thanksgiving great for our Veterans!

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Project New Hope has been selected again by the Store Leadership Team at Shaw's to benefit from the GIVE BACK WHERE IT COUNTS Bag Program.

PNH will receive $1 from every $3.00 reusable GIVE BACK WHERE IT COUNTS Bag sold during the month of November 2023 at a designated Shaw's store location.

Visit a Shaw’s and give back to Veterans!

$22,351.16 raised for Veterans!

$9,650.12 raised for Veterans!

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