Say thanks and give back this Veterans Day

With roughly 80,000 veterans in the state, former service members make up about 8.9% of Montana’s adult population. That ranks third in the nation, behind only Alaska (10.1%) and Virginia (9.1%).

It’s a testament to Montanans’ spirit of service and sense of duty.

On Tuesday, Veterans Day, take a moment to honor these heroes. It’s easy to do. A simple “thank you” goes a long way in recognizing the enormous sacrifices they’ve made to serve and protect our country.

But don’t stop there.

Dozens of veteran support organizations across Montana need financial help and volunteers to ensure retired service members are cared for. The need is especially urgent amid the federal government shutdown, which has heightened anxiety about the availability of critical resources for veterans and their families.

More than 1 million U.S. veterans rely on the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. With those benefits in flux, more veterans are turning to local food banks for help.

The North West Montana Veterans Stand Down and Food Pantry in Evergreen is one local organization stepping up for military families. Through its “veterans serving veterans” model, the pantry provides essential support — and they’re always in need of volunteers to help distribute food and sort donations. Call 406-756-7304 to sign up.

Disabled Veterans of America has a local chapter in Kalispell. Clients rely on the service to get to VA appointments and navigate benefit claims, with more than 5,000 rides provided each year in Montana. The group is also there for veterans who need food and shelter or help finding employment. Sign up to become a driver or partner at mtdav.org.

Whitefish Veterans Support Team is another local group making a difference. The nonprofit hosts summer and winter retreats for injured service members, their caregivers and families, offering time to connect and heal with fellow veterans on Big Mountain's ski slopes and area rivers. Similarly, Montana Wounded Warriors organizes hunting and fishing trips for veterans wounded in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Both Flathead Valley groups fill a critical gap in veteran care — and both deserve support.

This Veterans Day, don’t just say thanks. Show it. Donate and volunteer. Give back to the Montana heroes who have given so much to the country.