CLEARLAKE, Calif. – The Lake County Vet Connect Committee hosted the final Vet Connect for the year on Dec. 12.

Thirteen veterans attended the event. Providers on site were able to answer questions and assist veterans with VA health benefits, food, housing and even child support issues.

Sonoma County Vet Connect provided warm clothing, hygiene items, blankets and even towels to those in need.

Veterans enjoyed a holiday dinner of ham, homemade scalloped potatoes and green bean made and served by volunteers, Kathy, Tom and John.

The winner was picked for the beautiful handmade quilt the committee was holding a raffle for and winner Judy Mitchell quickly claimed her prize.

Sutter Lakeside Hospital ER nurses and friends made 36 boxes of two dozen homemade cookies each for veterans to take home with them.

During 2018, Lake County Vet Connect held four outreach events, three Vet Connects, and the September Stand Down, a two-day resource fair, reaching almost 200 veterans.

The Lake County Vet Connect Committee Committee also provided tents, sleeping bags, clothing and hygiene items and food to those displaced by the Ranch and River fires and the Camp fire in Butte County.

The next Vet Connect event will be March 20, at the American Legion Hall.

If anyone knows of a veteran in need of assistance or would like to volunteer please contact Chairman Frank Parker at 707-274-9512.