November brings the start to the holiday season and one in particular that often goes less recognized, Veterans Day. Veterans Day is a memorable holiday where we celebrate the men and women who have served our nation in any capacity, any war, or any military branch. It is celebrated annually on November 11th, commemorating the end of World War I at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. Hudson County, along with other parts of New Jersey and the rest of the country, has several ways that we can honor our veterans, with a special focus on the individuals who are local to our communities. Read on to find out the different places working to help Vets and how to be part of the efforts through donations, awareness, and action.
The American Legion | 308 2nd Street
This nationwide organization serves Veterans throughout the United States in many different capacities. The Hoboken branch is a community center and residential building housing homeless veterans. Along with other branches of the American Legion, the Hoboken branch supports Veterans with resources that help Veterans in surrounding towns and cities. It also organizes volunteer opportunities too. Donations can be made to help support projects that benefit veterans.
Read More: A List of Hoboken + Jersey City Non-Profits to Donate to Year-Round
Hoboken Elks Lodge 74 | 1005 Washington Street
The local Elks Club is a community-based organization that strives to do good deeds for others. One of the organization’s initiatives includes supporting local veterans. The group raises money through events and donations. The larger organization, of which the Hoboken Lodge is part, organizes different programs that help veterans and military members with rehabilitation, adaptive sports programs, and therapy kits, as well as the Welcome Home initiative, which helps homeless veterans. The Elks live by the words in the organization’s pledge, “so long as there are veterans, The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks will never forget them.”
Jersey City Office of Veterans Affairs | City Hall Annex, One Jackson Square, Jersey City
The Jersey City Division of Veterans Affairs built housing for homeless veterans. This city-based organization worked to create a space to house homeless veterans and help them find jobs, housing, educational opportunities, and other opportunities to meet fellow veterans. Quality of life is what the office strives to provide for these American heroes.
Visit a Local Memorial | Multiple Locations
When asked, most veterans humbly ask that community members simply honor the day by celebrating those who have served in our military by honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. While we know that Memorial Day is dedicated to these efforts, it is important to learn about and pay tribute to those who have served. Hudson County has many memorials and tributes that honor the men and women who fought for our country’s freedom. A list of some local memorials can be found here. The Hoboken Girl was fortunate enough to sit down with local Veteran Vincent “Vinny” Wassman, who served and shared his story with our team. Though he has since passed, his memory and legacy in town remain.
See More: Backpacks For Life: Saving Lives One Veteran at a Time
Support a Veteran-Owned Business
Search out veteran-owned by city on this website. A few of the small businesses in our area that are veteran-owned include Garden State Realty in Hoboken, and SW3AT Sauna in Hoboken and Jersey City — which is owned by veteran Alyza Brevard-Rodriguez. More about Alyza’s business here, and see all the Hudson County veteran-owned businesses here.
These are just a few of our local organizations that can certainly use the community’s help and assistance. Please consider donating, volunteering, or just being a friendly face for a local hero.
