Operation Stand Down - Supporting Our Veterans

One Community Now holds an annual event all about supporting local veterans that are in need throughout Pasco County. Operation Stand Down is a time for the community to connect with our homeless and at risk veterans to help break down the barriers that are keeping these heroes on the streets. The "hand up, not a handout" philosophy of Stand Down requires the work of countless volunteers, businesses, and local, state, and national organizations. Organizations are available to provide direct services (including medical, dental, legal, spiritual) to ensure Veterans are getting benefits they are entitles to and provide referrals for those struggling with mental healthier, unemployment, homelessness and addiction issues.

The Pasco Juniors put together 16 blessing bags for the women veterans who attended the event this year. Each bag was filled with essentials and hygiene products to make everyday living just a little easier. 

Find out how you can get involved by emailing GFWCPascoJWC@gmail.com

A Sense Of Normalcy For An Uncertain Mothers Day

Sunrise of Pasco provides many programs to support and shelter individuals and families that are escaping an abusive situation. One of the largest undertakings is their relief shelter in Pasco County that houses dozens of women and their children at any given time throughout the year. Many of their refugees have come to the shelter with absolutely nothing other than their will for a better life.

Many times there are mother's with their young children at the shelter. During certain times of the year, it can be even more heart breaking when these children can not participate in activities that others their age are traditionally able to do so. One of which is Mother's Day. 

For several years, the GFWC Pasco Juniors have been providing an opportunity for the children at the shelter to "shop" for jewelry for their mother and create a handwritten card for her. The jewelry has been donated and is provided to the families completely free of charge. Any ladies at the shelter that are not mothers are able to pick out something for themselves as well. This little token of normalcy can make a difference in the confidence a woman has, and the children now feel like they have a bit of normalcy in the tradition of gift giving during a holiday.

Life's A Beach, And We Clean It Up!

 The General Federation of Women's Clubs center around serving our local communities in various general categories of service types. One of the most easily supported categories is Environment, in which many clubs host a local clean up in their area to rid our communities of trash that has been discarded improperly. 

One of our neighboring counties has some of the most popular beaches in the United States. Often tourists come throughout the year, unintentionally leaving trash behind. In honor of Earth Day, the GFWC Pasco Juniors had a small group of volunteers take their time walking along a stretch of crowded beach to collect trash and recyclables. The group gathered several bags of trash and a 5 gallon bucket with recyclable items. 

Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and see how you can get involved!