During the month of February, the Youth Service Bureau offered a remote family service project called, “Valentines for Veterans.” Covid-19 has been especially difficult for Veterans receiving inpatient and outpatient care due to family visitation restrictions and social distancing. We have all experienced loneliness and isolation during these trying times; youth and families agreed that a simple act of kindness, such as creating a handmade Valentine, has the power to brighten someone’s day, especially if they are not feeling well. Families were provided with all the supplies to create beautiful and creative Valentines.

All 457 Valentines were mailed to Newington VA Hospital and were distributed to Veterans receiving medical care. For some healthy competition, the family who created the most Valentines received a gift card to a local restaurant of their choice to enjoy a special takeout meal.

The purpose of this project was to not only to offer hope and joy to our Veterans, but also provide an opportunity for family connection. Some families created Valentines virtually with friends and other family members. It was a fun and meaningful project for all involved!