(Atlantic, Iowa) – The owners of The Franklin Market and The Picker’s Parlor, in Atlantic, are spreading the word about their “Adopt A Soldier” program. Amanda Graham said in a post on social media, that her husband was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010-11, and during this time, she served as his unit’s Family Readiness Group leader. Graham said “One of my favorite roles of this position was putting together care packages to send to our unit.

This year, The Franklin Market and I are hoping to help others make care packages for our local Veterans in need. We are challenging our community and local businesses to take part in our ‘Adopt a Soldier’ program. Between now and December 10th, anyone may nominate a local Veteran who could use something- maybe it’s food or clothing, maybe it’s household goods, or maybe it’s gas cards to get to doctor appointments, help with lawn care, snow removal services, roof repair, auto repair, etc. Maybe it’s a hot, fresh meal once in awhile. Maybe it’s someone to walk their dog. Or maybe it’s someone who is lonely or depressed and could use their spirits lifted.”

Graham says you can simply stop in at 402 Chestnut and fill out a nomination form, or email them to request one sent to you. The forms are available now (Nov. 12th through December 10th. Amanda says also, “The Veteran’s name and personal info will NOT be shared with anyone except the person adopting that Vet, if needed for services. The donor and person nominating may choose to send a card with the gift and include their name and contact info if desired. Gifts can be dropped off at The Franklin Market and we will deliver all gifts the week before Christmas. At the current time, the Veteran needs to reside within 20 miles of Atlantic. We will extend this if able.”

The business will hang information about Veterans who available for “adoption” on a tree in the entryway (a description of what is needed will be on the tree, no names). You may take one if you commit to providing what is needed. “Please see us at the counter to officially adopt that Vet. We will begin hanging the ornaments as soon as we receive them, so just stop in to adopt,” Graham says.

She said also, “You may also provide a monetary donation to help cover services needed or Veterans who may not be adopted by Dec 10th, so that we can ensure everyone gets something they need.”  If you are a business that provides a service and would be willing to donate your time, please let Graham know, so she can hook you up with a Veteran should that service be needed.