GUSTINE, CA — The Veterans Memorial Hall on 5th Street is the heart of a special current mission: the Coat and Blanket Drive for Homeless Veterans, led by VFW Post 7635 and American Legion Post 240. The event has become a beacon of hope for veterans and the homeless in the area, especially as the cold weather approaches.

The drive, which will be accepting donations from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sept. 26 and Sept. 27, is not just about collecting items—it's about honoring those who have served the country, many of whom now find themselves struggling to survive on the streets.

At the helm of this effort is Mike Watson, a 78-year-old Vietnam veteran and long-time member of the VFW and American Legion. Watson's vision and dedication reignited the coat drive last year, turning it into a tremendous success. “It’s him that deserves all the praise,” said Kathy Jacobs, who served as an Airman First Class in the Air Force and now helps run the drive. “He’s the head of this, and I’m just a grunt helping to make this go.”

Last year, the community stepped up in a big way, collecting 13 to 15 large bags of coats and blankets, along with one 13-gallon bag of new soap bars. Each 40-gallon bag was filled with warm clothing and blankets, while the soap donations typically came in six-packs—critical items for those facing the winter without a home. “We didn’t count individual coats, but the sheer amount of donations speaks to the generosity of our towns,” said Jacobs.

Once collected, the items are distributed to homeless veterans and others in need through the Merced Rescue Mission, which has a strong veterans outreach program. Pastor Bruce Netcalf and his team play a crucial role in ensuring that veterans get first pick of the donations, with any remaining items going to other homeless individuals. “They’ve built over 20 little homes for homeless veterans, helping them get back on their feet,” Jacobs explained. “It’s more than just giving; it’s about rebuilding lives.”

The importance of this effort extends beyond just handing out coats. “For our homeless veterans, the coat drive is one of the ways we help them,” Jacobs emphasized. “Cold weather is coming, and if you’re on the street, you need the help a warm coat and blanket provide. We’re even taking blankets for the homeless veterans’ pets.”

Veterans like Watson and Jacobs know all too well the sacrifices made by those who serve. “The people that serve wrote a blank check to give everything they have to their country,” Jacobs said, her voice filled with emotion. “Some gave all and didn’t come back. Those that did come back, like Mike and the Vietnam vets, faced hardships that many today can’t imagine. Our work is to remind people of the sacrifices made.”

As the drive approaches, Watson and Jacobs remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting their fellow veterans, often going out in their own vehicles to pick up donations. Local organizations, including the Lutheran Church, have stepped up with generous contributions, further highlighting the tight-knit community spirit that defines Gustine and Newman.

For Watson and his fellow veterans, the drive is about more than just donations; it's about community, sacrifice, and the enduring love for their country. “People forget that the flag we stand for isn’t just flying because the wind’s blowing,” Jacobs said. “It’s because of the last breath of every veteran who served and died to make sure that flag stands free on American soil.”

Donations of clean, gently used coats and blankets, as well as new bars of soap, will be accepted at the Veterans Hall, located at 145 5th St., Gustine. For more information, community members can contact Mike at 209-854-6672 or Kathy at 209-829-5174.