Valley Vets Assemble 75 Backpacks for Homeless Veterans TODAY

UPDATE: Valley Vets in Conyngham, PA, has just announced a remarkable achievement: members have assembled 75 backpacks filled with essential supplies for homeless veterans. This urgent initiative took place on October 24, 2025, as the community rallied together to support veterans in need.

The Valley Vets headquarters transformed into a bustling supply depot, overflowing with backpacks, warm clothing, hygiene products, and snacks. The supplies were packed to support the FSB Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to aiding homeless veterans in finding shelter and support.

Cheryl Thomas, president of the Valley Vets auxiliary, initially aimed for 50 backpacks, but community generosity led to an impressive 75 backpacks being filled. Donations poured in from local residents, churches, businesses, and veterans, providing vital items like thermal underwear, gloves, and snacks.

“This project seemed daunting, but just like our veterans, we didn’t quit,” Thomas stated. “Our community stepped up in a big way.” Following a call for supplies in July, donations began arriving after outreach efforts in August, including letters sent to local businesses.

The FSB Initiative, founded by veteran Chaz Kraynak, who himself experienced homelessness, is now operational in Pennsylvania and Ohio, with additional teams in Florida and Tennessee. Kraynak emphasized the importance of directly engaging with homeless veterans, stating, “We started going into the woods, the camps, and abandoned buildings to find the homeless veterans.”

Currently, approximately 23% of homeless individuals in America are veterans. The FSB Initiative connects those veterans with resources at the nearest Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Kraynak noted that issues such as addiction and mental health challenges often contribute to veteran homelessness. For those willing to seek help, the VA provides crucial medical and mental health services.

The backpacks filled with supplies are vital for supporting veterans during the harsh winter months. Kraynak noted that the 75 backpacks could last only two months, as the FSB Initiative distributes supplies quickly, especially during the holiday season. This year, from December 15 to 22, Camp Orchard Hill in Dallas will again serve as a temporary home for homeless veterans, providing meals, clothing, and assistance with obtaining identification and housing applications.

“FSB Initiative does outstanding work,” said Jim Payne, director of Orchard Hill. “I have personally witnessed them help veterans get off the street and immediately into housing.”

The FSB Initiative also extends its services to civilians living outdoors, ensuring that even those not eligible for veterans’ programs receive necessary items. “We’ll make them comfortable, but not so comfortable that they say, ‘I can make it through the winter,’” Kraynak explained.

Since its inception in 2019, the FSB Initiative has successfully assisted 250 veterans in securing stable housing. Volunteers are at the heart of this operation, with no one receiving payment, reinforcing their commitment to helping those in need for the right reasons.

To learn more about the FSB Initiative and how to offer support, visit their website at fsbinc.org.

The Valley Vets’ tireless efforts showcase the profound impact of community support on the lives of veterans. This initiative not only provides immediate relief but also serves as a beacon of hope for those who have bravely served.