We can think of no better way to commemorate Veterans Day than to share about a lovely organization here in Indy working to serve our local heroes!  Let us introduce you to Helping Veterans And Families, a nonprofit serving homeless veterans and those at risk for homelessness through housing initiatives, employment programs, and a pantry full of food, clothing and hygiene items.

Since 1993, HVAF has been working feverishly to end homelessness among veterans and their families.  They have an outreach coordinator who seeks out homeless camps in Indianapolis, building repertoire with veterans in need and sharing HVAF’s resources with them.

“Whatever veterans need to get back on their feet, either we can provide it or we know exactly where to point them in order to receive it!” says Lauren Carpenter, the Marketing and Communications Coordinator at HVAF.

We recently had the incredible opportunity to connect with Lauren to learn more about the heart behind this wonderful organization and how we at The Baer Minimalist can get involved!

What kinds of donations are accepted?

HVAF provides a food, clothing and hygiene pantry to the veterans they serve, but need our help to keep it well stocked!  As far as clothing donations, men’s undershirts and underwear are in high demand, and socks are always in need (Note: while HVAF serves both men and women, they are currently in greater need of men’s attire).  Men’s work boots are also wanted.  HVAF accepts gently used blankets and sleeping bags as well!

In regards to hygiene products, HVAF puts together hygiene kits for veterans to take when they leave the pantry so they need a variety of personal hygiene items, ranging from toothbrushes and toothpaste to shampoo and conditioner (travel-sizes please!).

For the food pantry, items like soup, crackers, canned meat, pasta and canned vegetables are most needed at this time. Check out this link for an extensive list of items you can donate with information on how to do so as well!

What are the greatest needs right now?

With temperatures dropping, winter gear is in high demand (think hats, gloves, hand warmers, coats, long john’s, etc.).  Chapstick and Halls cough drops are also needed!

Approximately how many veterans have been reached?

In 2020 alone, HVAF served 1,453 veterans and they are currently on track to serve even more this year - WOW!

What can we anticipate seeing from HVAF in the next 3 years?

The homeless population of veterans in Indianapolis has increased this past year, and HVAF is doing everything they possibly can to keep this number from rising any further.  One way they are working to combat this crisis is through their housing initiatives. HVAF runs several housing properties (13 to be exact!) that provide both temporary and permanent housing solutions for veterans and their families as they work to get their feet back on the ground.  They will be opening an additional property at the beginning of 2022, with plans to continue opening more properties as they become available.  HVAF is also working adamantly to battle the opioid crisis impacting the veteran demographic as well.

How can readers get involved?

Volunteering is the best way to get involved at HVAF! This can be anything from organizing the pantry to helping with property beautification, and everything in between.  They also have group opportunities (for companies, Bible studies, etc.) to put together the hygiene bags that are passed out during their pantry hours!

Where can we follow along?

Facebook: @hvafofindiana

Instagram: @hvafofindiana

Twitter: @hvafofindiana

YouTube: HVAF of Indiana, Inc.

LinkedIn: HVAF - Helping Veterans And Families

It was an absolute privilege getting to know Lauren and learn more about HVAF’s mission!  Lauren is the real deal, with a heart for serving the veterans in our community.  Her role at HVAF allows her to listen and share their stories with others, something she does not take lightly.  The resilience and strength they show amidst the struggles they’ve faced is truly inspiring, and Lauren hopes to impact others the way they’ve impacted her!

To all of our veterans, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your service!  The sacrifices that you and your families have made do not go unnoticed.  We appreciate you, and we are forever indebted to you!

The Baer Minimalist helps busy families create ORGANIZED + STYLIZED spaces throughout Indianapolis. We are passionate about helping our clients and the greater community not only Cut the Clutter, but also Donate + Do Good! Check out our full list of Donation Resources here!

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