Donations to Flags of Freedom Initiative Support Programs for Area Veterans
WICHITA, Kan., April 3, 2023 — United Way of the Plains and IAM District Lodge #70 are hosting their annual two-week display of 600 American flags to honor veterans this Memorial Day. Those who wish to pay tribute to a current or former member of the armed forces or honor the memory of a veteran may purchase a $30 dedication at unitedwayplains.org/freedom. Dedications will include the honoree’s name, branch of service, rank and a short personal tribute. All dedication sponsorships will be posted to an online Veteran Dedication Wall located on the website that will remain in place through the 2023 Veterans Day holiday on November 11.
This is the third year United Way of the Plains and our union partners have honored veterans and service members with a flag display located in the field at IAM District Lodge #70 at 3830 S. Meridian Ave. (I-235 and S. Meridian Ave.). Area volunteers will assemble and place the flags in the field which will be on display from Monday, May 15, through Memorial Day, Monday, May 29. The public is encouraged to visit the site and participate in a public celebration and dedication that will be held on Saturday, May 20, from 2 – 2:30 p.m.
The annual fundraiser supports United Way programs assisting veterans with transportation, shelter, mental health care and other wrap around services. For example, a $30 dedication/donation provides a veteran 17 free rides per year on Wichita transit as part of the Veterans Ride Free program.
Dedications may be purchased through Monday, May 29. More information and a map showing the location of the field of flags site can be found on the website for United Way of the Plains.
Corporate sponsorships and donations have already been secured from these generous organizations and companies to support those who have served our country:
- IBEW #271
- Plumbers & Pipefitters Local Union #441
- Wichita Hutchinson Labor Federation of Central Kansas, AFL-CIO
- Dean E. Norris, Inc.
- Building & Construction Trades Council of Central & Western Kansas
- IAM & AW Local Lodge #774
- Epic Insulation
- Sheet Metal Workers: Local Union #29
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MEDIA CONTACT: Angie Prather, Vice President of Marketing and Chief Community Engagement Officer, (316) 267‑1321, ext. 4105, aprather@unitedwayplains.org
United Way of the Plains is a nonprofit and for-impact organization that focuses on health, education, financial stability and basic needs – the building blocks for a good quality of life and a strong community. Our mission is to improve lives by harnessing the caring power of our community to advance the common good in south central Kansas. Follow us on these social media channels: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.
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