Central Alabama VA held several tree-lighting ceremonies to spread holiday cheer for Veterans in Columbus, Georgia; and Tuskegee and Montgomery, Alabama.

One of the highlights of the ceremonies was the attendance of the Poydasheff family (pictured above) who were excited about the first tree-lighting ceremony at the recently opened clinic.

“I’m very proud to be a part of this,” said Rob Poydasheff, son of the late Col. Robert S. Poydasheff, for whom the clinic is named. “I love that VA is reaching out to take care of Veterans. I’ve seen several items under the tree that will help Veterans in need. I’m truly overwhelmed.”

Group of people with Christmas tree

First Christmas tree lighting ceremony in new clinic

The Scouts of Historic Georgia donated many items which was part of a state-wide challenge for each city to make 110 care packages for homeless Veterans. In addition, one group provided 85 personal care packages with a personal note to each Veteran.

Gold Star mother represented her late husband

It was also a special day for a Gold Star family member Deborah Tainsh, who was there to represent her late husband, Sgt. Maj. David Tainsh, and her son, Army Sgt. Patrick Tainsh, killed in action in Iraq in 2004.

“This clinic didn’t exist when my husband went to VA. This is the first time I’ve come in since it was open and it is just a pleasure to see the beauty here and all that it’s going to offer for all of our Veterans,” said Tainsh.

At the Tuskegee Campus, the Auburn Student Veterans Association delivered hard-earned donations from their fundraiser Operation Iron Ruck, a fundraiser they hold each fall where students from Auburn University and the University of Alabama walk approximately 150 miles to the visiting team’s stadium.

Community contributes to holiday gift giving

The Montgomery VA Clinic received coffee, pastries from Starbucks, and hygiene items from St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, American Legion District 32 and the American Legion. Donors also filled the Toys for Tots boxes for the children of Veterans.

“Despite the challenges that everyone is facing, I continue to be humbled by the care our community members show Veterans by giving these gifts. This demonstrates the significance of nurturing community relationships,” said Director/CEO Amir Farooqi.

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2 Comments

  1. Patricia Kelly-Banks December 29, 2022 at 06:30

    It’s been a big relief out of respect to see VA Facilities offer faster help to those impacted by lack of services.
    I’ve expanded Partnership Affiliation with Department of Defense activities for awareness and appreciation!

  2. William R McMichen December 25, 2022 at 17:34

    This kind of teamwork is “JUST HEART WARMING” and a patriotic way of honoring our VETERANS and the lives lost in war zones worldwide. My congratulations to these individuals for their love and compassion for their fellow men and women!!

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