KANKAKEE — During this holiday season, State Senator Patrick Joyce is encouraging people to write uplifting notes to veterans as part of the Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs 2023 Operation Rising Spirit campaign.

“It is the little notes and gestures like this that help uplift our veterans during the holiday season,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “This campaign continues to provide our former service members with comfort and a sense of appreciation this time of year.”

Operation Rising Spirit launched in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to support residents who were unable to visit friends and family. The campaign was successful in encouraging veterans and facilitated their connection with the community. During the 2022 holiday season, IDVA distributed over 5,000 letters to veterans in the state’s care.

“I encourage all individuals and organizations to participate in this year’s campaign so we can provide our veterans with joy and support,” said Joyce.

To participate, people can mail letters directly to IDVA, or submit on the IDVA website. Letters will be divided equally between the state’s five veterans’ homes. If mailing, send letters to:

Crystal Womack

The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs

Central Office

833 S. Spring St.

Springfield, IL 62794-9432