Donated JAXPORT van making a difference for area veterans

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JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (June 24, 2015) – JAXPORT executives today helped unload food and supplies from a Ford Windstar donated by the port to Jacksonville’s Five Star Veterans Center. Currently home to 28 veterans, Five Star is a non-profit dedicated to making a positive impact on the community by offering transitional housing, job placement, financial counseling and other assistance to veterans in Northeast Florida.

“As a Navy veteran myself, and with JAXPORT employing so many veterans, we recognize the importance of supporting the vets in our community and always look for opportunities to do so,” said JAXPORT Director of Procurement Louis Naranjo. “The donation of equipment and vehicles that are no longer usable to us can go a long way in helping an organization like Five Star Veterans Center.”

The donated van previously transported equipment parts for repair work at JAXPORT’s marine terminals. Five Star Veterans Center directors now use the van regularly to pick up and deliver supplies, and to transport residents to work, classes and medical appointments.

“This is an example of what can happen when people get together and work to take care of those who have a need,” said Five Star Veterans Center CEO Col. Len Loving, USMC (Ret.). “It really is a godsend because we have so many needs. I deeply appreciate the support we received from JAXPORT.”

“Helping Northeast Florida’s veterans is something that’s very near and dear to our hearts at the port,” said JAXPORT CEO Brian Taylor. “About a third of JAXPORT’s employees are also veterans so we are honored to give back to those who have sacrificed so much to serve our country.”

Find out more about the Five Star Veterans Center.

See photos from the visit.