Annual Event Delivers Christmas Gifts To Hospitalized Veterans

For more than 20 years, a local group has organized much needed support for local veterans at the Dorn VA Hospital.

Now through December 11, 2022, the Vets’ Christmas Ride organizers are collecting unwrapped gifts and monetary donations to support the local veterans at Dorn VA Hospital. Midland’s Families are encouraged to bring donated items to drop off locations throughout Richland and Lexington counties. Motorcycle riders from across the state will congregate on December 11th 2022 and form a convoy through Columbia to deliver collected items to the Dorn VA Hospital.

“This event is not just a motorcycle ride. We need families and businesses in our community to donate to these deserving Veterans. It’s not about motorcycle riding. Anyone can help! This is a way for families to show true patriotism and thank these veterans who sacrificed for us and need our help.” said Jim Wertman retired Sgt. Major, owner of Carolina Honda Powerhouse.

Donation boxes are located at various locations throughout the Midlands including, All American Heating and Air, Carolina Honda Powerhouse, all Midlands locations of Sonic restaurants, and more. Bathrobes, sweatshirts, warm gloves, blankets, socks, and toiletries are needed items for these Veterans.

The motorcycle ride will begin at Carolina Honda Powerhouse located at 901 Buckner road, In Columbia at 2pm. The convoy of bikers will be escorted by the Richland County Sherriff’s Department to the Dorn VA Hospital. Since 2000, the annual “Vets Christmas Charity Ride” has helped bring Christmas to Midlands Veterans at Dorn VA Hospital. Donations can also be made online and 100% of all donations will be used for the Veterans at Dorn VA.

To donate, see drop off locations, and to learn more about needed items please visit www.vetsride.org.