Market 32 Makes Donation to Disabled American Veterans

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Market 32/Price Chopper presented a check for $61,644 to Disabled American Veterans (DAV), following aa November fundraising campaign. 
 
The donation includes $51,644 contributed by customers who rounded up their change at checkout across all 130 stores, along with a $10,000 match from Market 32/Price Chopper.
 
"Disabled American Veterans believes that every veteran is important and deserving of support, regardless of age or stage of life." said Pam Cerrone, Market 32/Price Chopper director of community relations. "With 1,200 chapters and nearly 100 offices across the USA, DAV can help veterans in life-changing ways. Market 32/Price Chopper couldn't be prouder to join our customers in support of DAV efforts to benefit those who have served and sacrificed for our country."
 
The check presentation took place at Market 32 Clifton Shoppers World Plaza in Clifton Park, NY, where representatives from Market 32/Price Chopper and DAV gathered to celebrate the impact of the donation and highlight the role it will play in DAV's efforts to support veterans by providing cost-free, lifetime support.
 
"With this generous donation, DAV can continue its mission of helping veterans access essential benefits, medical care, and employment opportunities," said Shannon Sander, DAV Department of New York commander. "We are deeply grateful to Market 32/Price Chopper and their customers for making a real difference in the lives of those who have served."
 
According to a press release, DAV empowers veterans through a range of services, including benefits assistance, job placement, and transportation to medical appointments. Assisting over one million veterans annually, DAV processed more than 209,000 benefit claims and provided 345,000 free rides last year alone. Beyond direct services, DAV advocates for veterans on Capitol Hill, educates the public on veterans' needs, and fosters community support through local Chapters.
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18 Degrees Event Celebrates Reunified Families

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — For many families involved with the Department of Children and Families, the first feeling is often fear of their child being removed from the home.
 
In reality, its goal is the opposite.
 
Last week, families, attorneys, social workers, and agency staff gathered at the 18 Degrees Family Resource Center to honor four families who overcame obstacles, such as addiction, successfully navigated the system, and were ultimately reunited with their children.
 
According to the event flyer, since 2010, the child welfare community has recognized June as Family Unification Month, formerly Family Reunification Month, to honor families working to strengthen and reunify their families, as well as the advocates who support them and help prevent family separation.
 
Speaking at the podium, some parents reflected on the negative perceptions they once had of DCF – views that changed as they confronted their struggles, persevered, and worked with the agency to access support and become better parents.
 
The setting of the celebration reflected the theme of new beginnings, as the name 18 Degrees symbolizes the height of the sun on a new day, which is filled with new opportunities and possibilities, said Stephanie Steed, 18 Degrees president and CEO. 
 
"It is where the change from darkness to light happens, and all those things are just really symbolic and really a part of everyone's process," she said. 
 
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