We have always been very proud of the military personnel in our family and throughout the country. Both my brother and husband served in the Army previously and my Sister in Law is currently serving in the Navy and has completed tours in Afghanistan. Their sacrifices have helped to ensure not only my own family’s freedom but every other citizen’s as well. It is a source of pride to know that they have served our country in this way.
When my Sister in Law was in Afghanistan for a year, I wanted to know how we could support her while she was away from home. She would often call us and tell us how lonely and homesick she was so far away from home. During this time, I picked up a few tips for how we could let her know that we were thinking about her and show her our appreciation for her service. Servicemen and servicewomen benefit greatly from feeling connected to their family and loved ones when they are deployed. The long-term benefits for veterans are tremendous.
Here are some things you could do to show your appreciation for both active and veteran military members:
- Volunteer at your local VA hospital-Simply spending some time with our veterans can put a huge smile on their face. Everything from having conversations with them to reading to them is greatly appreciated.
- Write pen pal letters to troops overseas-My Sister in Law has shared with me that receiving letters from friends and loved ones is the highlight of any day for those who are deployed. It’s a great way for them to feel involved in what is taking place back home.
- Send a care package to a soldier overseas-Make sure you include toiletries and non-perishable candies and goodies. My Sister in Law has told me that those care packages really gave her the strength to make it through.
- Say “Thanks” to a veteran or someone who is serving in the military-It’s nice to feel appreciated and most of us don’t say “Thank You” nearly as often as we should to soldiers.
- Mentor the child of a parent who is deployed overseas-It is very difficult for soldiers to be separated from their children. By mentoring a child whose parent is deployed, you are helping veterans greatly and helping to ease some of the loneliness that kids feel when their parent is away.
Direct Energy is committed to giving back to those who have sacrificed so much to our country. For this reason, they have recently launched their military portal, a dedicated space where military personnel can find discounted energy rates for their home energy needs. Direct Energy Customers have access to their on time bill payments rewards program, Refer-a-Friend Program, easy, on the go Online Account Manager and more.
In order to be eligible for their discounted military rates, all military personnel have to do is enter their valid ID into the portal. Once it is verified, they will be directed to a dedicated military plans page with resources that are available in their area. It’s a great way for active and veteran military members to save money on their energy bills. After everything they have done for all Americans, money woes should be the least of their worries…
Let’s Discuss: How do you help veterans in your community?
Disclosure: This is a sponsored campaign created in collaboration with Direct Energy. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
© 2015, Tough Cookie Mommy. All rights reserved.
Wow! As a veteran myself it’s hard to keep up with all these amazing benefits. There are so many benefits, this one is definitely new to me. I really appreciate this post.
Thank you so much for serving. We all need to do more to help people like yourself.
To answer your questions about how I help veterans in our community, I have to admit that I really don’t do enough. I need to do more, for sure!
Love this – I try so hard to show appreciation for all that these people do to allow us to live where we do. Amazing hearts and astounding people! 🙂
This is great. It’s so important to help and show appreciation for the brave people who sacrifice so much for our country.
Awesome program! Wow! First off, thanks to your family for all of their service. Second, it’s so nice to see a company give back! Military families give so much and it can seem like they’re forgotten, what an awesome program!
This is fabulous! So awesome Direct Energy! I don’t know many veterans myself but my grandparents were in WW2 and I wish I could do way more to help!
I always thank any servicemen and women when I see them in uniform. We donate items at an annual drive a local church holds too. After reading your post though, I feel moved to do more. I think being a pen pal and mentoring kids of vets would be a good fit for me as well.
What a great program! My husband is in the military and the military family is our family!
You’ve got great tips here. I began writing letters when my son was in Boot Camp! Giving them that family support really is important.
It is good to show our appreciation to those who protect our country. We have a lot of service men where we live because the base is not far from here.
I think this is an awesome program. Great cause.
I have a nephew that is in basic training. He said he loves opening the mail each day so it is nice to send letters.
I love the idea of sending a care package. I’m going to have to look into that one.
It takes a lot to give your life in service. I applaud all the men and women who serve. Bless them all!