The Time of Year for Giving
Captain Michael Duchesne participating in Shop-With-a-Cop along with other community partners.
The generous and caring employees at the VA purchase the items from a list that is given to them from the Veteran and their family. Most of the Veterans request blankets, pillows, warm clothes and gift cards to purchase food.
The coordination for the event is done through Social Work Services at the VA and this year’s event was managed by Jennifer Gurski and Michelle Drawz with the help of Kathy Karl, Mike Tokunaga, Joe Tinker, Bret Betty, Jeremy Gray and Al Lucero. Everyone worked tirelessly with the help of several other employees and students to get the presents sorted, wrapped and distributed.
This year’s event provided a happier holiday to 27 Veterans, including 18 spouses and 15 children in the Flagstaff, Kingman and Prescott areas. It is great to see everyone come together during this time of year to help those in need.
This year is also the 20th Anniversary of the Prescott Police Shop with a Cop Event. Brian Schuman, Northern Arizona VA Health Care System Chief of Police is new to the area and this is his first time taking part in this special activity. He said, “In my 24-year career in law enforcement, this was one of the most gratifying experiences I have had. I will definitely be doing this again, every year possible!!”.
Captain Michael Duchesne from the NAVAHCS Police also participated in the event which gave 114 local children the opportunity to eat breakfast with the Officers, ride in a Police vehicle with the sirens on from the Prescott Valley Public Library to the Walmart in Prescott and spend $250 Walmart Gift Card. Most of the children bought clothing, shoes, and gifts for their family members and only a handful of toys for themselves. This is one holiday season they will not forget because of the generosity and support of the community who donated the money for this program.
This time of year, is when people give the most but please keep in mind that Veterans are in need all year around and the NAVAHCS Voluntary Service accepts donations Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. in Bldg. 15 and can be reached at 928-776-6013.
