Michigan Veterans Organization Honors Miss Farmington During a Feb. 21 Lunch

The Michigan Veterans Foundation (MVF) in Detroit honored Miss Farmington Elise Newcomer Feb. 21, to thank her for her ongoing efforts on behalf of the veterans being served by MVF.

Newcomer collected outerwear through her Blizzard Buddies campaign, and $282 at her second Charity Contra Dance held in February, for the organization. Only the third person to receive the humanitarian award, Newcomer said she was humbled by MVF's praise. She spoke about her efforts to serve in a meaningful way as Miss Farmington, and received a standing ovation with several “Oorahs” from the assembled crowd.

After the presentation of roses and a trophy, Newcomer served up lunch for the veterans and helped unload several cases of men's shoes, boots, socks, and gloves that had been donated to MVF. 

The non-profit works with about 1,100 veterans annually, providing transitional housing, help with benefits, meals, clothing, whatever they need to achieve a stable life. He said some younger vets coming home from more recent conflicts are recovering from brain injuries, lost limbs and post-traumatic stress.

MVF is also helping about 35 "chronically homeless" veterans, who are coming out of a long-term hospital or prison stay and have no place to go, with employability and benefits assessments.

Donations of new or gently used items marked for MVF can be delivered to American Legion Post #346 on Grand River in Farmington, or call 248-478-5196 to arrange for item collection.