Student Veterans in Oxford Provided with New Transportation
Oxford, MS – A generous gift has made its way to the University of Mississippi’s Office of Veterans and Military Services. An anonymous donor, who is an Ole Miss graduate, has provided a brand new 2024 Chevrolet Suburban High Country to help student veterans in their daily needs and activities.
Enhancing Mobility for Student Veterans
The newly acquired vehicle, stationed at the George Street House, is equipped and ready to facilitate various activities for student veterans. The plan is for the office to utilize this vehicle for important trips like attending conferences together, getting to medical appointments at the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson, and delivering groceries for veterans who may not have personal transportation.
A Message of Gratitude
The anonymous donor expressed a heartfelt message emphasizing the importance of supporting those who have served in the armed forces. “We thank God for the great men and women of our armed services,” the donor stated. “We owe such a debt of gratitude to those who’ve served all over the world to support and defend the Constitution and provide security to all of us so we can continue to have the freedom to pursue the American dream.”
Impact on Student Veterans
Andrew Newby, the assistant director for Veterans and Military Services, highlighted the immediate positive effects of this contribution. “This gift is incredible, and it has made an immediate impact on how veterans can engage others outside of campus,” he said. He further explained that the office mostly collaborates with outside entities, emphasizing how essential it is to address the needs of veterans both locally and nationally.
Addressing Real Needs
The donated vehicle is part of a larger initiative known as the “Welcome Home” campaign fund. This fund aims to provide financial opportunities for the public to contribute towards the specific needs of veterans and improve their experiences as they transition back to civilian life. “Many of these student veterans gave away their 20s to do what this nation asked of them,” Newby noted, underscoring the sacrifices made by those in service.
Community Support for Veterans
The office hopes that this donation will foster a sense of belonging among military-connected students. “This gift has made military-connected students feel seen,” Newby stated. The gesture demonstrates a belief in their potential and aspirations, which can profoundly affect their educational journey and confidence.
How to Contribute
For those interested in supporting the University of Mississippi’s Veterans and Military Services, contributions can be made to the “Welcome Home” campaign fund. Donations can be sent via check, specifying the fund name on the memo line, to the following address:
University of Mississippi Foundation
406 University Ave.
Oxford, MS 38655
Additionally, for any inquiries regarding the fund, individuals can contact Brett Barefoot, who is the executive director of central development, at bmbarefo@olemiss.edu or call 662-915-2711.
A New Chapter for Student Veterans
This new vehicle not only serves as a means of transportation but also symbolizes a community effort to support and honor our veterans, allowing them to pursue their goals and integrate into civilian life more seamlessly. With the backing of such generous donorship and commitment from the community, student veterans at the University of Mississippi can look forward to having their needs met both practically and emotionally.
