By Madeline Sullivan
What started as a simple lunch meeting between two business partners quickly turned into something more. Operation Unsung Hero was created after Andrew Neeb and Chris Storace felt motivated to help veterans in need.
From Memorial Day to Independence Day, Operation Unsung Hero is collecting socks, underwear, and feminine hygiene products for homeless veterans in the community. Neeb, CEO of Operation Unsung Hero, plans to use local authorities to help track down homeless veterans who are in need of the items being collected.
Neeb and Storace noticed an issue within the Veterans Affairs (VA), and many organizations that claimed to help veterans, and wanted to do something different. Neeb described the problem with the VA and many of the organizations as “a lack of transparency.” People want to see where their donations are going and they want to see results. Neeb plans on creating a website dedicated to the result from Operation Unsung Hero.
When asked about the most challenging part of Operation Unsung Hero, Need said, “being patient and persistent.” He stressed the importance of taking it one day at a time and not losing sight of your main goal, getting veterans off the streets.
Along with collecting clothing items and hygiene products, Operation Unsung Hero also offers the Hero Health Program. The Hero Health Program was created to help veterans with poor health receive the proper and necessary medical treatment. This health program offers assistance to any veteran that has a critical healthcare need that is not covered by the VA, does not have any health insurance at all, or suffers from a psychological condition. Veterans who are approved for this program will receive access to financial aid; help with finding a quality healthcare provider, along with any necessary help with scheduling appointments or transportation. Neeb’s program is dedicated to offering a solution to a long-term problem.
To donate any clothing to Operation Unsung Hero, visit one of the drop off locations around Brandon. For additional information, visit opunsunghero.org or the Facebook page.
