Assembly Military and Veterans’ Affairs Chair Cleopatra G. Tucker and Speaker Vincent Prieto on Thursday commended New Jersey businesses, schools and Assembly members and staff for their support of veterans on GI Go “Jeans for Troops” Day.
Thursday marked the Assembly’s third annual recognition of the fundraising drive, which encourages those who contribute $5 to the GI Go Fund to wear jeans to work. The nonprofit provides assistance to veterans, with an emphasis on those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“The common thread that connects the men and women we remember on Memorial Day is their devotion to this nation,” said Tucker (D-Essex). “Most of us will never know the battles they fought – both in combat and upon their return to civilian life. In an expression of our gratitude, I am glad we can partner with the GI Go Fund.”
“As we all look forward to Memorial Day weekend, it’s important to stop and remember that Memorial Day is about far more than backyard barbecues and trips to the shore,” said Prieto (D-Bergen/Hudson). “I am proud that we are once again taking the opportunity to honor those who have valiantly answered the call to serve this nation.”
All proceeds from the fundraiser will go to the GI Go Fund in an effort to help local New Jersey veterans find jobs and housing, go to college and get the health care they need. The Fund seeks to give veterans the means to avoid a lengthy Veterans Affairs backlog and instead choose their own doctors.
Thursday’s fundraiser was sponsored by the New Jersey Education Association. The union donated $5,000 to the GI Go Fund.
The GI Go Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans with their needs upon their return home from combat. In the past, the organization has helped veterans secure educational and health benefits and provided aid to veterans affected by Hurricane Sandy.
For more information on the GI Go Fund or for a list of organizations participating in the “Jeans for Troops” drive, visit www.gigofund.org.