Veterans Day November 11 to December 31
A Season of Silent Struggles: Veterans and the Holidays
For many, the holiday season is a time of warmth, reunion, and celebration. But for countless veterans across the country, it can feel especially harsh—a season marked by silent struggles.
This year, those burdens are heavier than ever. Rising living costs, limited access to mental health care, and underfunded support systems have left many veterans without the resources they need. Some face homelessness—or the looming risk of it. Others struggle to afford food, clothing, or even transportation to access care, let alone gifts or moments of joy. And for those without family, the season’s emphasis on togetherness can deepen the ache of isolation.
But there is hope. We can be united in rallying around our veterans with more than gratitude. For every veteran facing a silent struggle, may we offer our gratitude with tangible care, connection, and compassion.
Veterans Affairs 2024–2025: A Snapshot of Veteran Struggles
Veterans and Poverty: While exact 2025 figures are still emerging, estimates suggest over 1 million veterans continue to live in poverty, with economic pressures such as inflation and housing costs exacerbating the issue.
Disproportionate Risk: Veterans remain twice as likely to experience homelessness compared to non-veterans, due to factors like PTSD, lack of affordable housing, and limited access to mental health care.
Women Veterans: Women veterans are still the fastest-growing subgroup among the homeless veteran population. Many face compounded challenges, including economic instability, housing insecurity, and limited access to gender-specific support services. Single mothers who are veterans are particularly vulnerable, often navigating childcare, trauma recovery, and financial hardship simultaneously.
United in Making a Difference by Being the Difference!
‘Tis the Service of Service campaign is focused on Female Veterans with children, Female and Male Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and Female and Male Veterans experiencing food insecurity.
Providing Care: Supplying veterans with the personal hygiene products, clothing, food and other basic dignity and wellness essentials.
Offering Comfort and Compassion: Interacting with unsheltered and sheltered homeless veterans.
Officially commencing on Veterans Day, November 11, United Relief Foundation President Frank Salato presented the first in a series of donations to the officers of National Women Veterans United.
Good Deed monetary donations will be used to purchase and distribute hygiene products, winter clothing, and other health and wellness necessities tailored to each veteran’s specific needs.
Good Deed goods donations can only be accepted if there are:
- New winter clothing items for adults and children
- New (in original package) toys for children
- Packaged candy for children
- Nonperishable food items
- Unopened hygiene products
Also, goods need to be delivered by donors to the United Relief Foundation during normal business hours: 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday, except for national holidays. Question. Please email makingadifference@unitedrelieffoundation.org.