CM Ariola, FDNY, VFW Bring Comfort to Veterans

Councilwoman Joann Ariola joined members of the FDNY and the VFW to deliver more than 200 sets of sheets and comforters, as well as hats, blankets, and shirts to homeless and transitioning-into-housing veterans at the Borden Avenue Veterans shelter in Long Island City, Queens.

“Thanks to the donations from my constituents, my office was able to bring 125 sets of sheets to our veterans in need,” Councilwoman Ariola said. “As we have seen time and time again, when people are in need, the residents of District 32 always step up to the plate. I could not be more proud to represent such a generous district. These, in addition to the 75 comforter sets, and a number of blankets, hats, and shirts donated by members of New York City Fire Department and the VFW, will go a long way towards improving the lives of the brave men and women who were willing to put their lives on the line for the rest of us.”

“Far too many of our veterans are struggling to get by, and the services that they receive are often woefully lacking in funding,” Councilwoman Ariola added. “Through this donation, we can help these heroes get back on their feet and find a little more comfort in the world – comfort they certainly deserve to have.”

“It was great to give back to these veterans, who are so often forgotten,” said Lynda Thomson, Veteran Coordinator for the FDNY. “Our vets deserve better, and I am glad we could help them with this initiative.”

The Councilwoman and Thomson were joined at the Borden Avenue shelter by Billy Hayes, the Commander of the FDNY’s SSG Christian Engeldrum FDNY VFW Post 12033, who helped to gather supplies.

“As a military veteran myself, I’m always very passionate about veterans issues,” said Hayes. “I’m glad I could give back like this and help them in their time of need. I appreciate Councilwoman Ariola for this, and for all that she’s doing to help our veterans.”