“Vet Air” provides free air transportation to doctor’s appointments for veterans who have difficulty sitting for long periods of time.
The non-profit organization raised money for veterans on Monday at their second annual “Family Day” at the Waterfront Tavern in Holyoke.
Jessica Caldwell, an organizer, told 22News, “Helps to transport veterans who are unable to make it to farther away appointments, due to needing surgery or an exam that is not local to them.”
“Vet Air” provides faster and more comfortable transportation for these veterans. They’ve taken patients to destinations as far away as Florida.
One veteran, Jonathan Blanchard of Chicopee, said he heard about the event on Facebook and he had to come out to support. “There’s a lot of programs and events out there for veterans that veterans don’t even know about. And anything I can do to make them aware of those events. It’s just that personal connection with other veterans.”
Dozens of people came out to show support. Vendors sold items like military patches and hats.
“Vet Air” flies out of Barnes Municipal Airport in Westfield, and Westover Air Reserve Base in Chicopee. Since the company doesn’t own a plane, they charter, and rely heavily on donations and events to raise money.
All the proceeds from Monday night’s “Family Day” will help provide air transportation for local veterans.
http://wdtn.com/2016/08/23/non-profit-flies-veterans-to-appointments-for-free/