April 25, 2008

Thermal clothing, computer game consoles, a large-screen television and other items were donated April 8 to residents of the Southeastern Veterans Center in Spring City by Pennsylvania Council 13 and District Council 88.

 “To all the veterans here today, a heartfelt ‘thank you’ from every member of the AFSCME family,” said Council 13 Exec. Dir. David R. Fillman, who is also an International vice president. He noted the union’s “unique bond” with those serving in the armed forces. “Nationwide, more than a third of our 1.4 million members have served in Iraq or Afghanistan, or have family members who have done so.”

Council 13 plans to make donations at six veterans’ centers throughout the state. Members from more than 20 locals of D.C. 88 have already donated thousands of dollars in cash, clothing and supplies, and fundraising will continue.

The council’s program is part of a new initiative, AFSCME’s Matching Fund for Veterans, which will provide support for state veterans homes throughout the country. Through matching grants, AFSCME affiliates are encouraged to “adopt” these homes and to initiate their own fundraising drives.