Mt. Carmel expands offerings for 5th Patriot Day Give Back Event

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- As families continue to navigate their way through these tough times, Mt. Carmel is hoping they can provide just a little bit of help. On Friday, Mt. Carmel held their 5th Annual Patriot Day Give Back Event.

The event is a unique, drive-thru process where 800 families will drive thru collecting food, hygiene items, and other goods.

Patriot Day Give Back began at Mt. Carmel in 2016 as a way to honor our military and veteran communities and this event occurs annually in memory of the lives lost on September 11th, 2001.

Historically, this event focused on military and veteran families, but in light of the effects on the community due to COVID-19, they have expanded the event to include anyone who is in need.

Mt. Carmel Chief Operating Officer Bob McLaughlin said, “Well certainly the world changed in March, and there is more of a need. Because of that, our generous partners have doubled the offers, so we want to take the opportunity to acknowledge everybody who sacrificing during this time frame.”

As for the families involved, they say this event is something that truly helps them every year.

Angela Walter, the wife of a veteran, said, “It’s a way to show our wounded warriors, our military, our veterans, and first responders how much they mean to us. It’s something that shouldn’t be overlooked. Year after year, Mt. Carmel has always stepped up to the plate.”

While Desaree Gamez, a veteran added, “It’s very resourceful, especially to the homeless veterans that we have, because a lot of them don’t even know about a lot these resources out here in the community.”

And if you missed today’s big event, you can still get help if needed. Every other Friday, Mt. Carmel does a food drive, at least until the end of the year.