Program History

During World War II, Comedian Eddie Cantor started a fundraising effort to provide Christmas gifts for American Military Personnel hospitalized in England because of the War. His national project was called “Give to a Yank Who Gave,” which precedes the program now named “Gifts for Yanks (GFY).”

In 1952, Ohio began the program collecting $8,000, which was used to purchase cigarettes for veterans in Ohio Veterans Hospitals. By 1994, the program has grown to support volunteers in all the Ohio VA Medical Centers, Outpatient Clinics, Ohio Veterans Homes, and veterans residing in state mental health facilities.

» GFY Program Guidelines

Program Impact

• Christmas gifts/gift cards for Veterans who are receiving care in Ohio VA Medical Centers and our Ohio Veterans Homes

• VA Voluntary Service efforts conducted by Ohio Legionnaires

• Approved Special Projects that support Veterans receiving care in our Ohio VA Medical Centers and Ohio Veterans Homes

Become a Partner

The Gifts for Yanks program is completely dependent on the Legion Family fundraising efforts. All contributions to the Gifts for Yanks program directly impacts our Veterans’ receiving care in our VA facilities and Ohio Veterans Homes.

American Legion Post are challenged to contribute $1 per Legion member to the Gifts for Yanks Program. An annual fundraising goal of $250,000 is needed to fully support the Gifts for Yanks program.

Donations by check to the Gifts for Yanks program may be mailed to American Legion Department of Ohio, 60 Big Run Road, Delaware, Ohio 43015.

» GFY Donation Request Information

Points of Contact:

Holly Lewis, 10^th District, Gifts For Yanks Committee Chairman

Email: hollywlewis@gmail.com

Sherry Yockey, Dept. Liaison

Phone: 740-816-7552 | Email: syockey@ohiolegion.com

Gifts for Yanks Committee Members