Giving ‘Tiny Threads of Thanks’
South Texas VA’s Women Veterans Program (WVP), in collaboration with Soldiers’ Angels, a national non-profit organization, hosted a heartwarming event for expectant and postpartum military Veterans.
Titled ‘Tiny Threads of Thanks’, this special event aimed to honor and support those who have served our country, by providing them with essential baby items and resources.
Held at VA’s San Antonio Northwest Health Care Center, the celebration featured games, refreshments, and a “shopping experience” for expectant and newborn families to go around the room and select countless baby clothes and supplies. Beautiful décor filled the room as families stopped by labeled tables to select items for their new bundles of joy.
“This event was extremely important for South Texas VA and its women Veterans, and we’re honored to have the opportunity to give back.” Ms. Carli Guzman, South Texas VA’s Women Veterans Program Manager, said. “With the recent Maternity Care Expansion across the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, we are being made more aware of the pregnant and postpartum Veterans in need.”
South Texas VA’s very-owned Canteen Service provided a nice array of healthy food such as fresh fruit, sandwiches, and veggies to help celebrate this joyous occasion.
“This is our first event of it’s kind at South Texas VA and it does our hearts good to be able to see that we can make an impact for our pregnant women Veterans”, Ms. Kendra Emamali, Maternity Care Coordinator for South Texas VA stated. “It is our hope and desire that the word can spread, and our women Veterans know that along with receiving their maternity care through the VA, the WVP also has events like to celebrate them.”
Giveaway and game-winning prizes provided to the women Veterans and their families included baby clothing, strollers, car seats, gift cards, and more.
The atmosphere was filled with joy and camaraderie as Veterans engaged with one another, sharing stories and advice while fostering a sense of community and support. The event not only provided much-needed supplies but also connected Veteran families with local resources and services.
“Having help as a Veteran is very fortunate. I had a lot of assistance as an active-duty solider so as a Veteran, I was unsure if help was still available to me”, Ms. Jasmine Esco, an Army Veteran who is scheduled to deliver a baby girl in September 2024, said. “I was very happy to find out there was help through the Women Veterans Program and that they had this event for us to come and pick out items that I needed.” she added.
The Women Veterans Program and its community partner Soldiers’ Angels were proud to give back to these brave individuals, ensuring they feel appreciated and supported as they embark on the journey of parenthood.
Ms. Cathy Miller, San Antonio VA Representative for Soldiers Angels, was excited to collaborate with South Texas VA to assist with providing baby items and volunteering for the event. “Soldiers’ Angels loves and supports our women Veterans and are so happy to be apart to volunteer and to serve.”
To learn more about STVHCS’ Women Veterans Program, please call 210-949-9449 or visit the Women Veterans Program website for more information.