Cards of support and snacks donated by community to Vet’s Home under quarantine as resident celebrates 100th birthday

When The Veteran’s Home of Wyoming located in Buffalo suffered an outbreak of the coronavirus, Johnson County Commission Chairman Bill Novotny called on the community to show their support. 

In a Facebook post, dated Dec. 11, Novotny said the Johnson County Commissioner’s Office was attempting to bring some relief to the 74 residents and staff at the long term care facility. Novotny asked residents to consider sending Christmas cards, well wishes or quick notes of support to the residents. The Johnson County Commission Chairman also said the office was accepting donations of diet soda and individually wrapped snacks for the veteran residents and staff.

Not only did the community donate the items and mail the cards, but through the Johnson County Health Care Center, The Wyoming Department of Health and Governor Mark Gordon’s Office, nurses were sent into the Vet’s Home to give the staff much needed relief, according to Novonty. 

Residents from Wyoming and citizens from all over the U.S. sent hundreds of pounds of snacks and diet soda as well as hundreds of cards and letters raising the spirits of Wyoming’s veterans.  

While appearing on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Novotny expressed his gratitude to the hundreds of people who came together to support the Veteran’s Home.

Novotny also announced the 100th birthday of Veteran’s Home of Wyoming resident Evelino Cruz. According to Novotny Cruz served in the U.S. Navy during World War II in 1943 – 1945 as a carpenter’s mate. Due to the lock down the celebration of this momentous event has been postponed. But Novotny invited the community to send him birthday cards and well wishes. 

If you would like to send Cruz a 100th birthday card or letter, address them to First Carpenter’s Mate Evelino Cruz, 700 Veteran’s Lane, Buffalo, WY 82834.