Popular campaign for Canadians to show their thanks now in its 25th year
OTTAWA, Feb. 14, 2014 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Canada's Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander today visited the Perley and Rideau Veterans' Health Centre and presented Veterans with valentines handcrafted by Canadian students. School children, members of community organizations and individuals across Canada were encouraged to create valentines for Veterans as a way of giving thanks for their service to Canada. The program is particularly popular in schools where, through the 2014 Valentines for Vets campaign, more than 10,000 cards were made, giving students the opportunity to more fully appreciate and understand the tremendous sacrifices and achievements of Canada's men and women in uniform.
Quick Facts
- More than 10,000 valentines will be distributed today to Veterans in over 1,200 long-term care facilities across Canada.
- Valentines for Vets began in 1989 when the late columnist Ann Landers encouraged her readers to create special valentines for Veterans.
- Veterans Affairs Canada became involved with Valentines for Vets in 1996, continuing Ann Landers' legacy.
- All Canadians can take part by sending virtual cards to Veterans or by expressing thanks on social media using the #ShowYouRemember, #ShowYourThanks and #ValentinesForVets hashtags.
Quotes
"Through Valentines for Vets, our youth show their appreciation for the service and sacrifices made by Canada's Veterans. Veterans across Canada continue to be deeply touched by this annual gesture of respect from students."
Julian Fantino, Minister of Veterans Affairs
"For Veterans, many of whom are now in retirement homes, a valentine recognizes the tremendous gift they gave to uphold our nation and our values. Valentines for Vets serves as a poignant reminder to the senders as well, to ensure the stories of those who served will continue to live on."
Chris Alexander, Canada's Citizenship and Immigration Minister
Associated Link
SOURCE: Veterans Affairs Canada
Contacts
Joshua Zanin
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Veterans of Affairs
613-996-4649
Media Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
613-992-7468
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