Darrel Bishop– Department of Ohio Gifts for Yanks Chair

Objectives The History of Gifts for Yanks How the Gifts for Yanks Program is Funded and Operated Holiday Gifts Special Projects Other Projects How you fit in

The History of Gifts for Yanks During World War II, Comedian Ed Cantor started a program to buy US Veterans who were hospitalized in England a gift for Christmas The Department of Ohio American Legion began this program in 1952 by collecting $8,000 in donations to buy cigarettes for veterans in Ohio Veterans hospitals In 1984, $2.50 was allocated to provide a notepad, envelopes and pen as a gift In 1994, support was added to help fund necessary items for volunteers in all Ohio VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, Ohio Veterans Homes, and veterans residing in Ohio mental health facilities In 2015, the budget grew to $200,000 and included funding for Christmas gifts, special projects,, and VAVS support

How the Gifts for Yanks Program is Funded and Operated Donations are accepted from Posts, Districts, and private citizens from August 1st to July 31st 100% of all donations are used for the Gifts for Yanks program Standing committee which consists of a representative from each District who approve gifts and the budget Subcommittee of five representatives selected by chair to determine the budget each year; budget includes amount for gift, facilities to fund for VAVS, special projects, and other programs

Holiday Gifts 2500 gifts are purchased each year; in 1984, $2.50 was allocated per gift: in 2018, $22.00 was allocated per gift Gifts are packed by volunteers at Department HQ every year and then shipped to the various facilities Volunteers distribute the gifts at the various facilities in time for the holiday

Special Projects Each year, the various facilities request funds to help with special projects such as Art Therapy programs, golf carts, bus passes, outings and events, etc. All requests must be in writing and received before the deadline of April 1 Funds for approved requests must be requested by the facility before any money is sent

Other Projects The Gifts for Yanks committee also funds other projects as directed by the Department Executive Committee Homeless Veterans and Veteran’s Court initiatives are examples of these other projects

How do I fit in? Legion Posts are the hands, feet and hearts of the Gifts for Yanks program You can provide direct help by conducting fundraisers for Gifts for Yanks and by sending the requested $1 per member minimum contribution You can solicit the community to donate funds to this great program You can also volunteer to pack gifts and to hand out gifts to the patients. All are welcome!