19th Ward Ald. Matt O’Shea hosts the Help A Hero fundraiser throughout June, benefiting Rush University Medical Center’s Road Home Program. Supporters can purchase a Freedom Isn’t Free lawn sign or t-shirt at the19thward.com or by texting 855-202-2100.
T-shirts are $15 in adult sizes and $10 in youth sizes, and lawn signs are $20. All proceeds will benefit the veteran’s mental health services at Road Home Program.
Additionally, Horse Thief Hollow and Open Outcry Brewing Co. will offer specialty brews for the month, and $1 for each beer sold will be donated to the Road Home Program.
The Road Home Program helps veterans – regardless of their discharge status – and their families address the invisible wounds of war and military service through outreach and community education, evidence-based mental health services, and research.
Since the program’s inception in 2014, nearly 3,000 veterans, service members, and their families have received mental health treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders among others. Many of the veterans and family members who come to Road Home are not eligible for VA services.
“The Help a Hero program is a simple way for residents to show their support to veterans and their families who have sacrificed so much for our country,” said Ald. O’Shea. “When returning home, our service men and women often suffer from mental wounds that may not be visible, but can be devastating. I believe it is our duty to ensure that mental health services are provided to our returning men and women who have served in the military. Through the Help A Hero Program, it is my hope that we can raise awareness, fight the mental health stigma, and encourage veterans and their family members to reach out for help through The Road Home Program.”
A number of activities will be scheduled throughout the 19th Ward to raise awareness about mental health in conjunction with National Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness month.
The Help A Hero effort is a partnership between Ald. O’Shea, the Conner T. Lowry Memorial Fund, and the Road Home Program. For more information, visit www.the19thward.com
