Volunteers load wood crates onto trucks prepping to assist veterans as part of the Mat-Su winter preparedness project. This initiative, led by Alaska Warrior Partnership (AWP) and supported by nonprofits like VAREP and Battle Dawgs, ensures emergency winter support for needy veterans.
On a chilly, drizzly October morning, the first delivery heads to Big Lake for veterans reliant on wood heat. James Hastings, founder of Alaska’s Healing Hearts, buys tarps and straps to keep the wood dry. Store owners offer a discount upon learning about the cause.
The project began after Hastings and Jessy Lakin, AWP’s program lead, aided a veteran lacking firewood years ago, recognizing the worsening need to collaborate with other groups to maximize their collective impact on veterans living independently. Hastings described their coalition as a multi-component combat, with each organization contributing unique expertise.
Their first stop involves leaving two wooden crates at a veteran’s Big Lake residence, covering them for protection. Lakin emphasizes that this is emergency firewood, urging veterans to conserve it and focus on sustainable solutions like connecting to VA benefits.
Next, they travel to Huston, where Air Force veteran Karen Kirkpatrick receives a delivery. Last winter, she had to face severe hardship due to one day’s firewood supply. Due to the initiative, Kirkpatrick now feels supported during tough times. The team continues to Knik-Goose Bay Road, aiding Army veteran Ronald Hartbarger, who previously struggled after a fall. The partnership saved him from potentially life-threatening conditions.
Last year, the Mat-Su winter preparedness project assisted 37 veterans in dire need. This year, it aims to help 100. Lakin hopes to grow the project statewide, filling community gaps and creating lasting solutions through volunteers and partnerships.
This news article was originally published by Alaska Beacon.
