American legion post 273 presents $29,000 donation to bay pines va fisher house | va bay pines health care | veterans affairs

BAY PINES , FL — The largest American Legion in the United States, Post 273, presented a donation representative of its membership to the Bay Pines VA Fisher House during their annual open

house, at the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center, June 1. The check for $29,889.28 is the second sizeable check presented by Post 273 in the past six months. “We continue to be humbled by the

generosity of organizations throughout the area who give back in support of the Fisher House mission,” said Shentrela Diggins, manager of Bay Pines VA Fisher House. “This donation from

American Legion Post 273 will go to the purchase of essential items servicemembers, Veterans, families, and caregivers need when they reside at the Fisher House.” Diggins added that often

loved ones arrive to the Fisher House not knowing the length of their stay. Through donations, the Fisher House can provide those family members with necessary items, ease worry, and allow

them to remain focused on helping their loved ones heal.    Diggins added than nearly $110,000 has been donated to the Bay Pines VA Fisher House in FY 23. “It just warms my heart that

organizations like Post 273 and countless others choose us and those we serve when they decide to give back, continued Diggins. “Our local community is full of Veterans and families who know

what it’s like because they all served, too, and I don’t think they know how much we respect each of them for paying it forward to those we serve now and in the future.” The check was

presented during the Fisher House’s annual open house which serves as an invitation to location community organizations to stop by and learn more about the resources the Fisher House

provides to the Bay Pines VA community. “There is no group who loves Veterans more than the organizations and leaders who support Bay Pines VA Healthcare System,” added Bay Pines VA

Healthcare System Director/CEO Paul M. Russo. “We’re honored to have Veteran organizations like American Legion Post 273 as long-standing partners in our mission to provide world-class

health care, services, and support to Veterans, families, and caregivers.” The Bay Pines VA Fisher House is preparing for the grand opening of it’s second house on the Bay Pines campus this

fall, next to Fisher House 1 near Lake Timucuan.