Above: VFW Post 3276 Commander Steve Whynot at the All Wars Memorial
Since 2005 Southborough residents Lisa Braccio and Debbie Depp Wilson have organized semi-annual care package drives to benefit troops serving overseas. In that time they’ve shipped off in the neighborhood of 7,800 boxes filled with the comforts of home. This weekend, they hope to add to that total.
While collecting treats for the troops, the drive will also honor VFW Post 3276 Commander and Southborough resident Steve Whynot.
“Steve is not there for just Veterans but for everyone alike,” Braccio said via email. “I have such huge admiration for Steve’s dedication to our Veterans, our Town and his friends and family. Steve was one of the first people to step up in 2005 when we hosted the 1st Care Package Drive and has always been a fixture since.”
Volunteers will be accepting donations at the Senior Center on Saturday, May 18 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, and on Sunday, May 19 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. The community is also invited to attend an opening ceremony to honor Whynot starting at 8:30 am on Saturday at the Senior Center. Overflow parking is available at Woodward.
At a meeting last week, Selectman Dan Kolenda encouraged residents to contribute to the care package drive. “As a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I can tell everyone first-hand how much those care packages mean when they arrive in a desolate place,” Kolenda said. “I strongly encourage residents to come out and support the drive. Anything from home is greatly appreciated.”
Check out the flyer below for a list of items you can donate (printable version here). Cash or checks to offset the cost of shipping are also welcomed.
(click to enlarge)
Steve is truly a great American ! He is one of the most kindest people I know and we as a community are very lucky to have him. Thank you Steve for all you do.
Susan – I am extremely humbled with everything Lisa has been doing to promote this weekends Package Drive. At some point – I’ll share how Lisa and I were brought together and how the drives started.. However – A year ago – this drive was in honor of Charlie Hamel…a WWII Veteran and someone that made every attempt to be there for as long as he could to help during the drives. Early this morning…My friend – our friend Charlie passed away – just a few weeks from what would have been his 94th birthday. Charlie enjoyed working the drives and was a proud Veteran who wanted to give back to those serving today….. Rest
easy my – friend…..We have the watch now..
Steve, my sincerest condolences.