QUIL CEDA VILLAGE Approximately $6,000 was raised last year for disabled veterans and veterans families, and Arlington Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1561 hope to generate just as much this year through their Buddy Poppies fundraisers in the coming spring and summer months.
Herb Singleton, of Arlington VFW Post 1561, thanked the Tulalip Tribes for allowing them to conduct their fundraiser at the main entrance of the Wal-Mart at Quil Ceda Village, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 6-8 and 20-22, and May 4-6 and 18-20.
Its so nice of them to let us stand out front of their store, Singleton said. All of our money goes toward supporting veterans families and disabled veterans. Especially with the current conflicts, weve got folks coming back without their arms or legs. Our boys are getting slaughtered over there.
Singleton explained that the assistance covered by such funds can range from aid in rent and PUD payments to extra money for groceries, but emphasized that the posts service officer evaluates each applicants needs to ensure that their donations are going toward those who are deserving.
Hes willing to drive all over the place, from Darrington to Snohomish, to sit down and meet with folks face-to-face, Singleton said. He goes out to all these houses, to make sure their claims are legit. Since hes been at this for the past 20 years, hes pretty sharp.
The Buddy Poppies fundraisers have been a staple of the spring and summer months in the local community for many years, but Singleton continues to be impressed with the generosity that area residents have demonstrated.
Its a system of suggested donations, so really, what we collect is based entirely on however much people feel like giving to us, Singleton said. And yet, weve had people give us $5, $10, sometimes even $20 in a single shot. With this war especially, I think people are much more conscious and conscientious than they used to be about supporting our troops and their families.
Although Singleton emphasized that the need for donations for disabled veterans remains considerable, he cannot stress enough how much kindness and concern the VFWs efforts have already been shown.
For More Information:
The Arlington Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1561 Buddy Poppies fundraiser takes place at the main entrance of the Wal-Mart at Quil Ceda Village, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 6-8 and 20-22, and May 4-6 and 18-20. Herb Singleton invites those with questions to leave a message for him at 360-403-4953.