VFW Post 6022 hosts craft show benefiting veterans

Local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6022 came together Saturday, hosting its first arts and crafts show in support of the more than 315,000 veterans living in Alabama.

“All the funds that we raise go toward our different veterans projects that we do in conjunction with the things we do with veterans and the VA,” said VFW Post 6022 Building Manager Dwight Blake.

Blake said his father served in the Korean War, and after he retired Blake wanted to give back to the community in honor of his father. That’s why he joined the VFW.

The Tuscaloosa community supports its veterans more than most people would imagine, he said. Part of that is because of what he calls the “university factor.”

“I was really pleased of how many people came because it’s a really pretty day,” Blake said.  “They came and they supported and we appreciate that.”

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 27% of all veterans suffer from a service-connected disability, and according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 7% of veterans suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

VFW leaders said they plan to host a craft and vendor show every month alongside their other events. Proceeds will go toward veteran services.