VFW auxiliary donates $5,000 to CCI for wounded veteran

FALLBROOK — The Fallbrook VFW Ladies Auxiliary invited Canine Companions for Independence (CCI) to a recent meeting to explain their Veteran’s Initiative, which offers a canine companion to a disabled veteran.

After CCI’s presentation, the ladies voted to spend $5,000 to sponsor a dog, with a fundraising goal of $10,000. They said they hope to encourage donations from local organizations, neighboring VFWs and the public to help reach the goal.

These trained dogs enable wounded veterans more freedom and independence and assist in daily challenges like opening and closing doors, picking objects up off the floor, turning lights on and off and pushing elevator buttons.

In addition to the physical benefit of a canine companion, there is the mental benefit that any dog/pet lover can appreciate. This gift lasts for the service life of the dog (usually eight to 10 years) and when the dog is retired, the veteran is eligible for another dog.

Those interested in helping with the effort may send donations to: VFW Ladies Auxiliary, 1175 Old Stage Road, Fallbrook, CA 92028. Reference: Wounded Veteran.