North Star Community CU Completes “Operation Thank You”

​This credit union recognized the immediate needs of veterans and reacted by collecting nearly 2,000 personal care items for the Minot Vet Center. 

The Department of Veteran Affairs estimates that on any given night, there are more than 76,000 homeless veterans sleeping on American Streets.  In addition, more than 14 percent of veterans live in poverty, and 53 percent of homeless veterans have disabilities such as PTSD, substance abuse, and other injuries.  Veterans are also at increased risk for suicides. 
 
That is why North Star Community Credit Union launched “Operation Thank You” in their 12 locations.  From June 15 – July 15, the credit union worked to raise awareness of homeless vets and collected donations of hygiene products such as shampoo, deodorant, feminine products, toothpaste and toothbrushes, and more.  The project was suggested by Sandi Widdel, the Minot Branch Manager and proved to be very successful!  During this time, nearly 2,000 items were donated and distributed to the local Veteran Center in Minot, ND.  The credit union event received coverage in the Minot Daily News and the Local KXNews television station also covered the story!  Photo from MDN: Sheila Melaas and Sandi Widdel from North Star Community Credit Union with Ric Gutierrez, Minot Vet Center.