Swim With a Mission donates $20G to Rochester veterans group

From left, Eddie Edwards, VFV; Angelo Mazzella, SWAM; Julie Taub, SWAM; Shayna Wright, SWAM; Jeanne Grover, VFV; Phil Taub, SWAM and General Don Bolduc with Victor, SWAM. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - In the month of January, people aren't thinking of farmers markets, organic produce and swimming in the beautiful lakes of New Hampshire, however, recently a small group gathered at Ryan's Place in Epping to look forward to and celebrate those exact things. Several members from SWAM (Swim With A Mission) presented a $20,000 donation check to the Vouchers for Veterans Board.

Rochester-based Vouchers for Veterans is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created in 2016 to give back to local veterans in honor of their service, while providing a boost to local farmers and the economy at designated farmers markets throughout New Hampshire and Maine.

The Vouchers for Veterans program is funded primarily by residents, businesses, and generous donations given by other nonprofits from around the state. SWAM is one of those organizations.

"SWAM is a charity that wants to show their appreciation and gratitude for the many sacrifices our veterans have made protecting our freedoms," said Jeanne Varney, president of Vouchers for Veterans. "Last year, we were grateful recipients of $15,000, and this year's donation of $20,000 will help us expand our mission even further."

Since 2017, Bedford-based SWAM has donated over $6 million to honor and support local, regional, and national veteran support organizations that provide critical services to veterans. These include supporting Veteran organizations like Vouchers for Veterans that provide services and resources to local veterans in their own communities.

The mission of Vouchers for Veterans has spread quickly, and any veteran living in New Hampshire and Maine is invited to go to their nearest participating farmers market and receive $20 in vouchers each week during the month of September to use on fresh fruits, vegetables, and products. The organization is currently looking for volunteers to serve at all events planned throughout 2021. Email jeanne@vouchersforveterans.org if interested.

For more information about Vouchers, please visit www.vouchersforveterans.org. For more information Swim With A Mission, please visit www.swimwithamission.org.