This March marks 15 years since Wounded Warriors Family Support was founded, with the goal of assisting the families of those who have been wounded, injured or killed during combat operations. Thanks to a generous gift by Stearns Bank, WWFS is starting off this milestone in a strong way. Among other critical support, Stearns Bank’s donation of $108,680 will be used to purchase vehicles for Native American veterans living on remote reservations.

“Our Native American veterans must travel great distances to reach a VA clinic for their health care,” said WWFS founder Colonel John Folsom, USMCR (Ret.). “Currently, they don’t have reliable transportation and these vehicles will ensure they are able to receive the timely and consistent care they need. We are very grateful to Stearns Bank for their support. This generous contribution goes a long way toward helping our organization execute on our mission.”

Stearns Bank generated the large contribution by donating all loan packaging fees and documentation fees collected from borrowers during the week leading up to Veterans Day last November. Stearns Bank will continue its nationwide program of waiving 100% of the bank’s packaging fees on SBA loans for eligible veteran business owners, in addition to providing the other SBA program savings for veterans.

“We are proud to support and recognize the many men and women who serve our country,” said Stearns Bank CEO Norman Skalicky. “We honor their dedication and sacrifices, and Stearns Bank will continue to do all we can to support veterans and their families.”

Skalicky himself is a veteran. His military career began with the ROTC program at the University of North Dakota. He served on active duty in the United States Army from 1956-58 and then served in the reserves for more than 15 years.

“We are very happy to begin our 15th year as a foundation with Stearns Bank by our side,” said Col. Folsom. “Not only is this financial support critical for our organization’s ongoing efforts, this act of kindness has a positive emotional impact on the families we serve at a time when they need it most.” 

Individuals and organizations interested in donating to WWFS can find more information at www.wwfs.org.