Market 32 Makes Donation to Disabled American Veterans

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Market 32/Price Chopper presented a check for $61,644 to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), following aa November fundraising campaign. 
 
The donation includes $51,644 contributed by customers who rounded up their change at checkout across all 130 stores, along with a $10,000 match from Market 32/Price Chopper.
 
"Disabled American Veterans believes that every veteran is important and deserving of support, regardless of age or stage of life." said Pam Cerrone, Market 32/Price Chopper director of community relations. "With 1,200 chapters and nearly 100 offices across the USA, DAV can help veterans in life-changing ways. Market 32/Price Chopper couldn't be prouder to join our customers in support of DAV efforts to benefit those who have served and sacrificed for our country."
 
The check presentation took place at Market 32 Clifton Shoppers World Plaza in Clifton Park, NY, where representatives from Market 32/Price Chopper and DAV gathered to celebrate the impact of the donation and highlight the role it will play in DAV's efforts to support veterans by providing cost-free, lifetime support.
 
"With this generous donation, DAV can continue its mission of helping veterans access essential benefits, medical care, and employment opportunities," said Shannon Sander, DAV Department of New York commander. "We are deeply grateful to Market 32/Price Chopper and their customers for making a real difference in the lives of those who have served."
 
According to a press release, DAV empowers veterans through a range of services, including benefits assistance, job placement, and transportation to medical appointments. Assisting over one million veterans annually, DAV processed more than 209,000 benefit claims and provided 345,000 free rides last year alone. Beyond direct services, DAV advocates for veterans on Capitol Hill, educates the public on veterans' needs, and fosters community support through local Chapters.
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New Camp Is Safe Place for Children Suffering Loss to Addiction

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

Last year's Happy Campers courtesy of Max Tabakin.
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A new camp is offering a safe place for children who have lost a parent or guardian to addiction. 
 
Director Gayle Saks founded the nonprofit "Camp Happy Place" last year. The first camp was held in June with 14 children.
 
Saks is a licensed drug and alcohol counselor who works at the Brien Center. One of her final projects when studying was how to involve youth, and a camp came to mind. Camp had been her "happy place" growing up, and it became her dream to open her own.
 
"I keep a bucket list in my wallet, and it's right on here on this list, and I cross off things that I've accomplished," she said. "But it is the one thing on here that I knew I had to do."
 
The overnight co-ed camp is held at a summer camp in Winsted, Conn., where Saks spent her summers as a child. It is four nights and five days and completely free. Transportation is included as are many of the items needed for camping. The camp takes up to 30 children.
 
"I really don't think there's any place that exists specifically for this population. I think it's important to know, we've said this, but that it is not a therapeutic camp," Saks said.
 
She said the focus is on fun for the children, though they are able to talk to any of the volunteer and trained staff. The staff all have experience in social work, addiction and counseling, and working with children.
 
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