April, Month of the Military Child- A Reflection About the Children We Serve at HVAF!

  Homelessness and food insecurity doesn’t affect just the veteran. Many of the veterans we serve have spouses and children. April is designated as the Month of the Military Child, a time to recognize and honor the unique challenges and contributions of military children, who are often resilient and adaptable due to their families’ frequent relocations and deployments.

After military service, these children often face more challenges, as their parent may have PTSD or other mental health issues because of their service. Of the families who enter in HVAF programs, many have also faced additional trials. Some have lived in their car or on the street, have gone hungry, or have watched their parents battle addiction. When we welcome these families into our programs, the children need and deserve just as much care as their parents! After working at HVAF for almost four years, I have witnessed the incredible resilience and adaptability of these military kids! They are strong and wise beyond their years. One child in our Permanent Supportive Housing has always stood out to me. He has a special way with his three younger siblings that I often don’t see in a teenager. He guides and protects them. My heart breaks when I think of their past and how they have faced homelessness and other tragedies. Despite their struggles, this young man and his siblings possess joy and a humbleness that always touches me.  They are very appreciative of all they receive, simple things that many others take for granted. This is why I love being a part of the Veteran Engagement Committee!  This committee focuses on providing opportunities and events that bring back the magic of being a kid. The children can forget about their trials and participate in our events! From celebrating the holidays with Easter egg hunts and a Halloween Bash, to fun filled activities like apple picking, a Back-to-School carnival, and even trip to the Zoo, our goal is to bring these children joy! This year we have even been invited to a Plane Pull by Republic Airways at Indianapolis International Airport, where the children will be able to explore an airplane, helicopter, and all the gadgets in the cockpit! When you think of the heartbreak of veteran homelessness and food insecurity, it is often not told through the innocent eyes of a child.

Being able to see the smiles or hear the laughter of these kids, who once faced such daunting challenges, is the greatest reward as an employee.

We cannot forget about these, the military children, their resilience, their fortitude, their courage. We must support them! Your donations provide for the programs and services which benefit military families, the veteran, the spouse, and the children. Donate today! Bring smiles to these resilient warriors!

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer with HVAF, please contact Andrea Carlile at acarlile@hvaf.org or 765-425-3366. Come and help us make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families!

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