Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell shows Veteran Stephen Stengel, his new suit donated through the "Suits for Success" program, during a clothing delivery to the Jamaica Plain Veteran Affairs Medical Center.
Dedham, MA – Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell recently donated 30 men’s and women’s dress shirts, 30 men’s and women’s dress pants, and 15 full suits to the Jamaica Plain Veteran Affairs Medical Center and gave suits directly to veterans in the area through the “Suits for Success” program.
During the “Suits for Success” clothing delivery to the Jamaica Plain Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Register O’Donnell encouraged veterans in the area to pick out a suit. Veterans Kevin Thames and Stephen Stengel, with the help of Register O’Donnell, were able to find suits that fit. Thames, who needed a suit for an upcoming funeral, was also able to find suits for other veterans not present.
“This is the first time since the start of the “Suits for Success” program that we have been able to directly give back to people,” said Norfolk County Register of Deeds William P. O’Donnell. “This was especially meaningful for me knowing that Kevin and Stephen are both veterans and that these suits, which were donated by individuals all across Norfolk County, will be put to good use.”
The Jamaica Plain Veteran Affairs Medical Center provides essential services and support to veterans in need, including health care, social services, and housing, helping them to rebuild their lives and achieve success in all areas.
Register O’Donnell remarked, "It is my great pleasure to deliver these clothing donations to the Jamaica Plain Veteran Affairs Medical Center on behalf of the residents of Norfolk County. I thank all those who donated to our ‘Suits for Success’ program, and I hope other local residents and businesses will consider making a clothing donation to their local nonprofit organization. Organizations like the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System are truly needed and are a great resource for the community.”
“These donations go straight into our clothing closets, where veterans in need can come and receive clothing,” said Damien Powell, Voluntary Service Specialist, Jamaica Plain Veteran Affairs Medical Center. “This can potentially open up job opportunities by giving veterans the tools to make a good first impression and help them on the path to self-sustainability.”
The VA Boston Healthcare System’s mission is to offer options for timely, quality services for veterans through care and respect for their physical, psychological, and spiritual health.
“Any time we are able to give clothing to veterans in need, they are very appreciative because many of them are trying to take that next step in life, and a donation like this helps us get them through that transition,” said Powell.
Since the Registry started the "Suits for Success" program in February 2009, it has collected more than 11,000 articles of clothing.
Register O’Donnell noted, "We've learned over the last decade that programs like 'suits for success' work." Register O’Donnell continued, "This program has given many people the confidence to take the next step in their lives, and if we can help even one veteran achieve this goal, it's worth it."
The “Suits for Success” program, developed by Register O’Donnell, partners with groups like Interfaith Social Services of Quincy, Father Bill’s & MainSpring of Quincy, the Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System Voluntary Service Program, Circle of Hope in Needham, United Parish’s Thrifty Threads, St. Vincent de Paul in Plainville, St. Francis House in Boston, Suits and Smiles in Jamaica Plain, and InnerCity Weightlifting to assist those who are in need of clothing as well as household items.
“Whether it's through volunteering, donating, or simply showing gratitude and respect, we can all play a role in helping veterans reclaim their lives,” said Register O’Donnell. “I am honored to deliver these donations on behalf of the many people who contributed to the "Suits for Success" program and to be part of this effort to put these veterans on the path to success and ultimately help them achieve self-sufficiency."
Individuals interested in joining the VA’s Adult Volunteer Program can find more information at the VA Boston Health Care website at https://www.va.gov/boston-health-care/work-with-us/volunteer-or-donate.