A Greater Manchester veterans charity is giving former soldiers 'a whole new life'.
Veterans into Logistics has received a £40,000 financial boost from ASDA. With this money, the organisation will be able to educate 10 former service members for new professions as HGV drivers.
ASDA Logistic Services and the non-profit organisation have a two-year history of working together. With the support of ASDA, the veterans will get mentoring and training to pass their HGV licence exams and start new driving professions to further their shared goals of reducing veteran homelessness and unemployment.
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The MEN spoke to an ex-veteran who is currently a HGV driver, Daniel Birch who had served 4 years in the armed forces.
"I think what ASDA has done is amazing, the fact it help funds Veterans Into Logistics to help people is awesome really.
"When you leave the army, you are kind off left to your own devices. I found Veterans Into Logistics through a Facebook ad and I sent them an email. They replied the next day!"
The father-of-2 has now found a successful career through Veterans Into Logistics and has helped him buy a home for him and his family. CEO Darren Wright, founded the charity after his colleague in the army tragically passed away after leaving the military.
"Walking away from Jamie’s funeral, I knew more needed to be done for ex-military personnel who are struggling to adapt to civilian life and that’s why I founded Veterans into Logistics.
"I believe my lived experience puts me in a good position to support veterans who are struggling to adapt to life back in the community. It's amazing what ASDA has done. I know that supporting them into a well-paid, structured and secure career in logistics, where they can support themselves and their families.
"This will give them self-belief, pride and a whole new life after leaving the military."
Chief Operating Officer of Veterans Into Logistics, Major Ian Battersby expressed his gratitude for the donation received by ASDA: "We are extremely grateful for this donation from ASDA which will enable us to train 10 veterans into new careers as HGV drivers."
“We are so pleased that ASDA continue to partner with us and see the benefits of employing veterans with the dedication and skills they bring.
"We have already upskilled and supported veterans who are working for ASDA Logistic Services who say they are enjoying their new careers and feel respected and appreciated by ASDA.
“This donation will be life-changing for the veterans it supports, bringing structure, stability and financial security. The whole set up is really good and I’m so happy to be employed by ASDA."
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