The Allen County Veterans Service Commission (ACVSC) is relocating its offices next week, moving from its current address at 301 N. Main St. to the new Allen County Government Center, located at 237 N. Main St., Suite 109. This move, set for Wednesday, October 14, will impact public access to the commission's services for a full week.
In preparation for and during the relocation, the commission will be closed to the public from Monday, October 12, through Friday, October 16. Following the move, the Allen County Veterans Service Commission expects to open its doors to veterans and their families at the new government center location on Monday, October 19. While the commission itself will be operational from this date, the new Allen County Government Center building is anticipated to be fully operational by Monday, November 2, according to the commission.
In addition to the physical move, the commission is implementing changes to its annual Holiday Voucher program, which assists veterans and their families. This year, recipients will receive a single $100 voucher. This marks a shift from the previous structure, which provided two separate $50 vouchers for use during November and December. The new $100 voucher will be valid for a defined period, from Sunday, November 1, through Monday, November 30.
To ensure all eligible veterans and their families receive their vouchers without delay, the Allen County Veterans Service Commission is asking members to update their contact information. Veterans are urged to call the commission office at 419-223-8522 to report any changes to their phone number or physical address. This proactive measure will help the commission ensure timely communication regarding the distribution of the new holiday vouchers.
Looking ahead to the end of the year, the commission will also host its annual “Operation Christmas Cheer” party. This community event is scheduled for Saturday, December 5, and will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The party will be held at the Veterans Memorial Civic Center, located at 7 Town Square in Lima. Attendees can expect various features at the event, including access to community resources, food, and giveaways, among other activities.
Donations are being sought to support the "Operation Christmas Cheer" party, with the aim of providing assistance and gifts to attending veterans. Executive director Tamara Wilson expressed the commission's hope that "every veteran that comes in to leave with something." Residents interested in contributing to the event can make donations at the commission’s current office at 301 N. Main St. prior to the October 14 move. After the commission officially opens at its new address on October 19, donations can be delivered to the 237 N. Main St. office. The commission encourages community support to make the holiday event a success for Allen County's veterans.