30
September
2021
|
15:06 PM
America/Chicago

Donations Needed To Fill 100 Backpacks for Homeless Military Veterans

BELLEVUE, Nebraska – Now through Thursday, Nov. 4, the public can donate much-needed items to fill backpacks for homeless military veterans who are staying temporarily at the Siena/Francis House. Items can be dropped off at Bellevue University’s Military Veteran Services Center at 2108 Harvell Drive in Bellevue, Neb. 

According to Heather Carroll, Manager of the Military Veteran Services Center, the backpack drive is sponsored by the University and the Military Veteran Services Center. “Our goal is to fill 100 backpacks with essentials that will improve the day-to-day lives of the homeless veterans who are served by the Siena/Francis House,” she said. “The things that many of us take for granted mean the world to these veterans.” 

Carroll said the backpacks will be presented to the Siena Francis House staff and residents on Thursday, Nov. 11, at the Siena/Francis House’s annual Veterans Day celebration. Locally, several hundred military veterans seek shelter at the Siena/ Francis House each year; while nationally, about 20 percent of all homeless persons are veterans.

See donation list with items needed below.

Items For Men's Backpacks 

  • Blanket/Poncho – order this item online at Amazon and have it delivered directly to the MVSC.
  • Winter hats
  • Heavy winter gloves multiple sizing
  • Neck scarves
  • Shampoo and Conditioner
  • Deodorant
  • Shaving Cream
  • Razors
  • Lip Balm
  • Large Toe Nail Clippers
  • Hand and Feet Warmers
  • Hand and body lotion
  • Nail clippers
  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Masks

Items for Women's Backpacks 

  • Winter hats 
  • Winter gloves 
  • Winter socks 
  • Feminine products
  • Leggings multiple sizing please

The following link can be used to purchase items wholesale: https://www.backpacksusa.com/

All cash donations will go toward purchasing snacks and hand and foot warmers and any other specialty items identified.

About Bellevue University

Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).