The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs is asking communities to rise to the task of boosting the spirits of veterans living at veterans’ homes like the one in LaSalle. Director Linda Chapa LaVia says it means the world to the residents and staff feeling isolated because of visitor restrictions in place due to COVID-19.
People can show their support by sending cards, video messages, or organizing parades as part of what’s being called Operation Rising Spirit.
Letters or emails can be sent directly to the homes.
Illinois Veterans’ Home at Anna
792 N. Main Street, Anna, Illinois 62906
C/O: Anthony Barnett
Anthony.Barnett2@illinois.gov
Illinois Veterans’ Home at LaSalle
1015 O’Conor Avenue, LaSalle, Illinois 61301
C/O: Susan Scully
Susan.Scully@illinois.gov
Illinois Veterans’ Home at Manteno
1 Veterans Drive, Manteno, Illinois 60950
C/O: Dave Pedersen
David.W.Pedersen@illinois.gov
Illinois Veterans’ Home at Quincy
1707 N. 12th Street, Quincy, Illinois 62301
C/O: Sara Colgrove
Sara.Colgrove@illinois.gov
Prince Home at Manteno
1 Veterans Drive, Manteno, Illinois 60950
C/O Wali Lewis
Wali.Lewis2@illinois.gov