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Travis AFSA helps homeless vets

  • Published
  • By Tyler Grimes
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The Travis chapter of the Air Force Sergeants Association donated more than $500 in appliances and supplies to a local homeless shelter June 5.

The group also helped set up the items in a new apartment the shelter designated for homeless veterans.

"We obtained a list from the shelter with basic living amenities," said Master Sgt. Parnel Scalambrino, AFSA chapter president. "We have provided a microwave, bedding for five, towels, dishes, silverware, cups, plates, laundry basket, soap and other amenities."

The donation was an opportunity to support the community and those in need, Scalambrino said.

"When Travis Airmen give back to the community, it solidifies the strong partnership we have established with Solano County," he said. "Giving back radiates the devotion and heart of service we, the Airmen, have to our country as military members."

By donating to the shelter, it also gave the group a chance to provide assistance to homeless veterans, a segment of the population the AFSA holds in special regard, said Senior Master Sgt. David Edwards, Travis AFSA trustee.

"We requested that this room that we sponsor be given to homeless veterans," Edwards said, "because we will all be veterans one day and it's important not to forget about them regardless of their situation."

There are approximately 160,000 veterans who experience homelessness during the course of a year, according to a report released in 2011 on the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's website. The report also indicates that nearly half of all homeless veterans are located in four states, with California being one of them.

Edwards said he hopes the donation will inspire other Airmen to give back to the local area as well.

"The military calls us to serve our country," he said. "Part of that service is helping others who are less fortunate."

In addition, the donation is a way for the Travis AFSA to strengthen its ties to the local community while raising awareness to an important issue, Scalambrino said.

"We are not only benefiting (Travis) members, but we have expanded our sphere of influence to the local community, especially to those who have served our great nation," he said. "It is an honor for our chapter to assist in any way we can."