Franklin County vet fund surpasses $18,000 milestone

CHAMBERSBURG — The Franklin County Commissioners today announced that the Veterans Fund donations recently exceeded $18,000. The tax-deductible donations came from individuals, organizations and businesses interested in improving Franklin County veterans’ quality of life. The donations are used to expand local outreach and services to meet the needs of those who served our county and our nation.

“The Board of Commissioners and the staff of the Veterans Affairs office would like to thank all of the local businesses, organizations and community members for contributing to this worthy cause,” said Commissioner and Board Chairman Dave Keller.

Some of the donations underwrite Operation Save-A-Vet, Save-A-Pet, a program designed to help veterans lead happier, healthier, and more productive lives. According to Justin Slep, Director of the Franklin County Veterans Affairs office and the driving force behind the program, “Operation Save-A-Vet, Save-A-Pet pairs a service dog with a veteran who has service-connected disabilities. The dogs come from local rescues and shelters as well as a few select breeding lines. Once accepted into the program, the dogs receive highly specialized training and care.”

“This effort is a win-win all around. Operation Save-A-Vet, Save-A-Pet benefits the veteran, the dog, and the community,” said Commissioner Bob Thomas. Service dogs are proven to be extremely valuable in assisting veterans who, through their military service, acquired diabetes, seizure disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, or a number of other health issues. The dogs are also capable of serving veterans with psychological needs.