Norwalk K of C Show Soldiers Spirit of Thanksgiving

During the month of November two organizations have really shown the spirit of Thanksgiving to soldiers in need.  Homes For The Brave is a facility in Bridgeport that takes care of veterans who are trying to get back to regular life after serving our armed forces.  

This month Knights of Columbus #14360 and two Norwalk Schools helped out with a massive donation drive of goods for the soldiers.  On Veterans Day Nov. 11 Kendall School led by teacher Melissa Giandurco organized a collection for the Homes for the Brave with the faculty and staff. 

“The faculty and staff are always willing to help those in need.  In honor of my father's service and charity work they were more than generous in contributing to the collection of items for Homes for the Brave," said Melissa Giandurco in a release.

Also at Fox Run School teachers Mary Jo Pecora-Runkle and Jane Jawlik organized a collection after Knights of Columbus Council 14360 member, Joe Ginadurco approached the school about organizing a collection.  Joe was a Marine who served in Vietnam.  “Homes for the Brave is a wonderful organization. It is my pleasure to help my fellow Veterans in any way I can”, said Giandurco.

On Nov. 13 Knights of Columbus Council 14360 conducted a donations drive and received an overwhelming amount from their members.  

“The compassion and drive that our members have for the military is without boundaries.  Many of our members are veterans and understand the struggle our soldiers have when the return from service and Homes for the Brave helps them get on the right track," said Grand Knight George Ribellino in a release. "We want to do our part to help them as well.”  

Olivia Ellwanger, Development Associate for the HFTB was overwhelmed by the display of generosity.  “I wanted to say thank you for the generous donation that the Knights dropped off on Saturday! Here at Homes for the Brave we are very thankful for all of the community support as of late," she was quoted saying.

To continue the good tidings, the Knights council and the Catholic Daughters Court St. Matthew are sponsoring Thanksgiving dinner for the residents on November 28.

Since opening its doors in 2002, ABRI/Homes for the Brave has provided safe housing, vocational training and job placement, mental health and addiction services, and life skills coaching to help individuals, especially Veterans, leave homelessness behind. To date, the organization has worked with more than 800 individuals.

Knights of Columbus Council #14360 was founded in 2007 and currently do many fundraising and community outreach throughout the year, including its annual Macaroni and St Patrick Day Dinners, as well as lend assistance to Notre Dame Convalescent Home (Norwalk), Family & Children's Agency of Norwalk, All Saint Catholic School, Malta House and Fisher House.

For more information go to saintmatthewknights.com and www.homesforthebrave.org.