Heidrea for Heroes (www.heidrea4heroes.org), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing custom support to veterans facing challenges as they transition in civilian life, received a $1,000 grant from the Kingston based Solstice Foundation to complete an adaptive home modification project for a Plymouth veteran.
James Smith, a disabled Navy veteran from Plymouth who served from 1967-1969, was in need of modifications to his bathroom for wheelchair access. Due to the size of his motorized wheelchair, the doorway of his bathroom required widening and the floor, which had been damaged by the weight of the chair, needed replacement. With help from a generous $1,000 grant from The Solstice Foundation based in Kingston, and a donation of materials from The Home Depot in Plymouth, Heidrea for Heroes fulfilled the project completion during Smith’s recent stay in rehab. Smith is also a self-taught painter who has won awards for his work at VA art shows.
Using their own resources and working with area laborers and businesses to reduce costs, Heidrea for Heroes covered the full expense this project, with no cost to the veteran. In January, the organization, which was founded by two Marines, announced its Lift 21 initiative – a goal to lift a burden for 21 deserving veterans throughout southeastern Massachusetts between January 1 and June 30th. Smith’s project was among the last to be completed toward this initiative. The number 21 was selected symbolically in recognition of a 21-gun salute.
The Solstice Foundation has a mission to mobilize the caring power of the Solstice Restaurant Community to support worthy charitable organizations and individuals while upholding the core values that have helped Solstice Restaurant thrive; family, community, health and education. Proceeds from the Annual Summer Solstice Party go to the Solstice Foundation.
“Heidrea for Heroes was thrilled to be among the six local organizations who received a grand total of $15,000 this year,” said Amy Belmore, Project Manager and Director of Development for Heidrea for Heroes. “We have already been able to use the grant to directly benefit a veteran in our community.” Community members are encouraged to donate to support their efforts, and contributions can be made online atwww.heidrea4heroes.org or mailed to Heidrea for Heroes, 10 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 224, Plymouth, MA 02360. Veterans in need of assistance are encouraged to call their office at 774-773-3951 or visit the website to learn more about their services and the application process.
About Heidrea for Heroes, Inc.
Heidrea for Heroes was founded by Marine Corps veterans and small business owners/partners Jesse Brown and Mathew Mastroianni, who are also partners in a telecommunications firm. Both, as veterans, understand the issues of transition from military to civilian life – and they formed this non-profit organization to provide vital support services to veterans. With offices in Plymouth’s Cordage Park, they seek volunteers and funders to help them realize their dream; they recently received a $40,000 donation from the New England Wireless Association and a $10,000 grant from the Dunkin’ Donuts Baskin-Robbins Community Foundation. Heidrea for Heroes provides adaptive home and vehicle modifications, wheelchair ramps, mobility equipment, and individualized veteran/family support that aim to inspire and motivate veterans and families to move forward through transitions. Heidrea for Heroes has an application process for veterans in need of assistance and welcomes Massachusetts veterans of any age to submit. Applications and more information about the organization can be found online at www.heidrea4heroes.org, or you can call 774-773-3951. Family/friends of veterans can also inquire or apply on their behalf. Heidrea for Heroes office is located at 10 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 224, Plymouth, MA 02360.
