The Salem Daughters of American Revolution has provided gift bags to hospitalized veterans and those in area nursing facilities during the holiday season.
Volunteers gathered last week to put 504 of the bags together at the Marion County Farm Bureau Building.
Jeannell Charman came up with the idea seven years ago because of the time her brother had to spend at the VA Hospital in Marion.
“All the local hospitals, nursing homes, VA hospitals, from Anna to Marion, Jefferson Barracks and John Cochran,” Charman said. “Disabled veterans and anybody that needs a little Christmas who’s a veteran, we’re glad to add them to our list.”
Charman explains what each of the veterans receives.
“They get a Christmas card and America 250 lapel pin, puzzle book and ink pen, and really nice socks from Salem Rural King. They get a stress ball, playing cards, hand sanitizer, hand lotion, chap stick, and a magnifying glass.”
Charman says the gift bags are made possible from donations from area businesses and individuals.
Salem DAR members preparing packages.
