Christmas in July donation drive raised more than 3,000 socks, t-shirts, and more, plus cookies, to be given to the Clark County Veterans Assistance Center

Battle Ground Senior Citizens, Inc., joined forces with Home Instead this month for a Christmas in July donation drive, and together they raised needed items for the Clark County Veterans Assistance Center.

The Battle Ground seniors and Home Instead have been working together on this project for three years.

This year, the program brought in more than 3,000 pairs of socks, T-shirts, and underwear to ensure local veterans are well equipped with necessary items. These essential items are critical in helping veterans in need stay warm, comfortable, and protected against the harsh elements. 

“We were able to have such a huge success with the help from some friends,” said Sharon Wodtke, president of Battle Ground Senior Citizens, Inc. 

She noted Battle Ground Walmart for its help. Plus Cherish DesRochers-Vafeados of the Battle Ground city council, who brought in more than 700 socks herself with her relationship with Bomba Socks. 

Girls Scouts Troop 10072 also brought in cookies as part of the Cookie Share program.

“It is such a wonderful feeling to bring groups together to serve our veterans,” Wodtke said.

“It brings me joy and peace knowing veterans will have warm feet in the winter with fresh, clean socks, and all year long for protection against the elements,” said Julie Williams, owner of Home Instead, a leader in providing high quality, compassionate care for seniors.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the Battle Ground community and look forward to continuing to support our veterans in any way we can.”

The donations were delivered directly to the center. The Clark County Veterans Assistance Center gives to men and women who have served the country and who now face challenges in securing basic needs.

“We put a basket of socks in the lobby every day, and by the end of each day, they are gone,” said Sharon Tyre, chairman for the center. “We greatly appreciate these needed items.”