Friends of Coffey Health System volunteers spend each October collecting donations for their annual service project. In the past 15 years, Friends of Coffey Health System have mailed 1,400 boxes to American soldiers and canine units overseas. Since 2020, the effort has been coordinated in partnership with the U.S. War Dogs Association.
“Again, this year, we are excited to support the US War Dogs program,” said coordinator Linda Booth. “This is an organization we have partnered with for several years to send care packages to overseas dog teams. Approximately 2,700 canine teams are serving to detect danger and protect people. 100 percent of donations go to fulfilling the wish list of the handlers and dogs.”To kick-start the effort, CHS employees dedicate a portion of their annual “Jeanerosity Fridays,” in which employees contribute (at least) one dollar per week for the privilege of wearing jeans to work on Fridays.
With tremendous community support, last year’s collection raised $5,774.30 to support canine troops around the world. Led by former handlers, US War Dogs ensure that care packages meet the dogs’ unique needs, such as training leashes, leather muzzles, goggles, and booties. They also include dog toys and special items for the trainers and handlers.
“As a former US Marine Corps dog handler, I remember fondly receiving gear and care packages from US War Dogs,” writes Chris Willingham, who now serves as the organization’s president. “What made them so special was the care taken to make sure the gear sent was of the highest quality and met our most urgent needs.”
Individuals and organizations are welcome to join the Support the Troops project. Monetary donations are accepted by October 30 in care of Friends of Coffey Health System, 801 N. 4th, Burlington, KS, 66839. To arrange a convenient pick-up, call Linda Booth at (620) 364-8015 or the Coffey County Hospital Gift Shop at (620) 364-2121 Ext. 4267.
So much more than treats and toys
The United States War Dogs Association—founded by five handlers from the Vietnam War—supports military working dogs and their handlers. This support ranges from providing equipment to deployed troops into the retirement stage with medical assistance for retired dogs.
• Providing working dogs with necessary equipment both overseas and in the US and sending care packages to K-9 teams currently deployed. Our team has been busy fulfilling specialized gear requests to active-duty dog teams to the tune of $12,500 this quarter. One such request came in from Kuwait, where we were able to provide harnesses for helo casting.
• Recognizing military working dogs who are retiring through our awards program. The US War Dogs Service Award is a cherished memento for owners to receive for their MWDs, in recognition of their service and sacrifice. Over the last three months, we have been honored to issue 12 awards, along with a retirement care package which includes a plush dog bed, to make sure our retired MWDs experience all the comfort possible.
• Facilitating a free prescription drug program for retired working dogs. From April to June, we received 21 new Rx Applications and spent over $35,000 on medications for dogs on the program. We are proud to have supported 13 retired MWDs by paying for life-saving treatments, to the tune of $35,727.
• Providing funds for The Rainbow Bridge Assistance Program Memorializing K-9 Heroes. Our Rainbow Bridge Assistance program pays the cost of euthanasia and cremation, to ensure beloved retired MWDs receive a dignified end to their life. We supported three families this last quarter, and I know how much this gesture means to them as they come to terms with the loss of their K-9.
• Educating the public about the service and sacrifice of military working dogs. For four years, US War Dogs has organized a reunion for former Marine Corps dog handlers and Gold Star families. We also have a long history of supporting the dedication of monuments honoring war dogs and their handlers, including one recently completed at Fort Drum, New York. Speaking engagements and participation at events for military and civilian working dogs also helps spread the word about this important mission.