Norfolk County RSVP Delivers 5,000 Items to Veterans

The Norfolk County Retired Senior Volunteer Program collected over 5,000 essential items valued at nearly $10,000 during its sixth annual holiday drive for veterans. Norfolk County Commissioner Richard Staiti delivered donations to the West Roxbury VA hospital on Jan. 13, supporting patient care across VA facilities in West Roxbury, Jamaica Plain, and Brockton.

The drive ran from Thanksgiving through mid-January. Staiti said participating cities and towns showed strong support. "County government is boots on the ground, tangible assistance for local people in need, especially our veterans," he said.

The Dedham American Legion, Dedham Council on Aging, Canton, Medfield Council on Aging, Norfolk Senior Center, Walpole Senior Center, Sharon Council on Aging, the Knights of Columbus, and St. Mary's Church in Wrentham coordinated donations.

Peter Tribuna, Voluntary Service Specialist at VA Boston Healthcare System, called the collection exceptional. "Our patients will benefit from this contribution," he said.

RSVP, based in Dedham, receives funding from Norfolk County Commissioners and an AmeriCorps Seniors federal grant. The program engages volunteers aged 55 and older. In 2024, about 175 volunteers contributed more than 15,000 hours of service across 28 cities and towns in Norfolk County.