Dignity Duffle Bags for Homeless Veterans

"Every veteran deserves more than just our gratitude; they deserve the assurance of a life without hardship. Supporting their essential needs is the least we can do to demonstrate our thanks for their service."  This project is a multi-club effort led by Freeport-Merrick Rotary Club which benefits General Needs Ltd., a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving veterans.  The quote is from the General Needs website.  The Rotary Club of Freeport-Merrick is responsible for securing toiletries: Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Combs, Brushes, 3 in 1 Shampoo, Soap, Razors, Shaving Cream, Deodorant, Playing cards and Nail clipper sets.

These items will be added to an assembly line for a kit-building event on May 16 to create 145 duffle bags that will be distributed free of charge to homeless veterans and veterans in transition housing.  

We are partnering with the Rotary Clubs of Floral Park-Bellerose, Mineola-Garden City, South Queens, Southwest Queens and the Rotary Interact Club at Freeport High School. Our community partner is the Honor Society of North Babylon

Other items that complete the duffle bags include:  underwear, t-shirts, socks, bath towels and washcloths which will be secured by General Needs, the Rotary Clubs and the Organizations mentioned. 

This is our 4th Day of Service event where we provide Dignity Duffles to Veterans in Long Island and Queens. The experience has been both memorable and life changing.  Being invited to the human condition touches the very depths of what drives genuine compassionate care.