American Legion Post 522 in Lewisville is working with the Knights of Columbus Triad Assembly 2282 and the Elks Lodge 449 to raise funds for Boots for Vets. The purpose is to give vets from local facilities Veterans Helping Veterans Heal (www.vhvh.org) and the Servant Center in Greensboro (www.theservantcenter.org) the ability to purchase up to $120 for new shoes, work boots, socks and other footwear accessories from participating shoe stores.

Post 522 has been successful in obtaining support from many local businesses in the Lewisville and Clemmons area by placing collection jars in their business. We have also received donations from other American Legion posts. The post collected close to $2,500 for the program. Overall Boots for Vets raised over $20,000.

In February, with funds collected, the Knights hosted 24 veterans at local shoe stores to purchase new shoes and boots. In March, the funds raised by the post will provide needed support for vets from the Arthur Cassell Transitional House in High Point.

The Boots for Vets program supports vets in need. The simple benefit of having new shoes and boots will help with self-esteem; new shoes help them pursue employment, provide confidence and enhance their foot health with better shoes.

There are ongoing plans to continue the program in the near future.