Local group seeks to help veterans
RUSSELLVILLE — Veterans in Franklin County who need help with groceries, transportation, meals, wellness checks and caregiver support may not always know where to turn, Denel Wardell said.
Wardell, president of the Republican Women of Franklin County Association, said the group created the Honoring Veterans Committee to help connect veterans with available support, regardless of political affiliation.
She said privacy laws prevent volunteers from accessing the contact numbers of veterans, so veterans must contact the group directly or register for assistance.
“We can’t help them if we don’t know where they are, who they are,” Wardell said.
She said volunteers hope to assist with groceries, transportation to doctors’ appointments, meals, light cleaning, caregiver relief, simple visits and wellness checks.
“Caregivers have a really hard job and can use a break every now and then,” Wardell said. “If they’re a veteran, they need to be honored and respected and helped in any way.”
Wardell said the organization’s next spaghetti dinner for veterans is scheduled for May 12 at 6 p.m. at the Phil Campbell Community Center.
She said veterans who would like to register for assistance or attend the dinner can contact the committee directly. Veterans eat free and non-veterans may attend with a donation.
The event will include a flag retirement ceremony. Anyone with a flag needing retirement can call 256-394-5827 or send an email to veterans@rwfca.org.
Wardell said the committee hopes to help connect veterans with available resources, including organizations such as the local VFW and American Legion.
“If we don’t have the resources, we can help them find the resources,” Wardell said.
She said the group also welcomes outside volunteers who want to help veterans in the community.
Randy Mancell, commander of the local VFW post, said awareness remains one of the biggest barriers for veterans who need support.
“People don’t know that there’s people that will help them if they need it,” he said. “There’s no awareness for that.”
He said the VFW continues helping veterans with needs ranging from groceries and utility bills to accessibility projects at home.
“Last year, a widow of a veteran needed a wheelchair ramp, and we went out and built them a wheelchair ramp,” Mancell said. “We all served our nation. No matter what branch, we’re brothers and sisters. If one brother suffers, we all suffer. If one sister suffers, we all suffer.”
“If I can help any veteran in any way possible, I’m going to do it,” he said.
