The event is where locals brave the cold in attempt to raise money and food for local veterans. Volunteers have been sleeping outside of the Reach Services building, to raise awareness to the harsh conditions homeless veterans brave every day.
Organizers say veterans often do not have the resources they need. These resources include housing and mental health services. This is why organizers have continued with the annual event.
Organizers also say the lack of a heating and cooling center in the Wabash Valley is a problem that they want to keep addressing with leaders in the community.
“Any veteran out there, their circumstance take a turn into wrong direction, and they can find themselves homeless or facing homelessness. It’s a terrible thing once it happens. So, we can intervene or have resources available to give a hand up, get them back on their feet, get them into housing. That’s what we really need to do,” Veteran Program Manger, Noble Shaw said.
Shaw says the fundraising goal is $20,000 and they have reach the halfway mark to the goal.
Community members are encouraged to stop by Reach Services, which is located at 1400 Hulman Street, to speak with local veterans and community members.
Operation Vanguard started on Thursday, November 7th. It goes until Tuesday, November 12th.
It is the 6th year for Operation Vanguard.
