Operation Turkey Drop
The surprise cold weather of late October could not slow down or stop the staff from the Homeless Veteran Program, part of VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS), from delivering more than 500 turkeys and sides to Veterans and their families.
“None of this is possible without someone taking lead – Barbara Gillam has led the way and organized this event over the years,” said Rudolph Ragnauth, peer support specialist with TVHS.
Nicknamed “operation turkey drop,” the staff started this mission by picking up the turkeys from YAIPak Outreach one of its community partners, in Clarksville, Tenn. Besides the more than 500 turkeys, sides like cranberry sauce, green beans, stuffing, mac and cheese, and more, were collected and prepared. After getting set, the team then delivered meals across Tennessee from Clarksville to Crossville, Cookeville, Chattanooga, Nashville, and Gallatin.
“No matter the miles, the weather, nor the traffic, it is providing meals and support to Veterans and their families that is most important and rewarding,” said Ragnauth.
The VA TVHS Homeless Veteran Program provides support to Veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless due to financial hardship, unemployment, addiction, depression, or transition from jail. For more information, please call 615-873-6400.