CAÑON CITY, Colo. (KOAA) – A longstanding Thanksgiving tradition at the VFW in Cañon City was almost put in jeopardy this year after the building required major repairs due to roof damage.
But thanks to community support, including donations received after News5's previous reporting, the annual holiday dinner was able to take place in the same building as planned.
Hundreds lined up outside VFW Post 4061 on Thursday waiting for a hot Thanksgiving meal. For many veterans, including Scott Chaussee, this is not just another community event.
“Every veteran needs to have a place to go when they are away from family and friends,” Chaussee said. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a turnout.”
The damaged roof threatened to close the doors this year. VFW leaders said they were unsure how they would pay for the repairs or whether they would have to move the VFW.
That changed when community members came forward.
“At first we were wondering how we're going to pay for this. We may have to move,” said Alejandro Aguirre, commander in chief of VFW 4061.
After News5 first reported the damage, additional assistance arrived, allowing the VFW to complete repairs in time for the holidays.
“We appreciate everything Channel 5 and the community have done for us,” Aguirre said. “Because of the community and the anonymous donors… I think it’s great.”
Chaussee says the gathering is more than just a meal. He says it's an opportunity to share stories, camaraderie and connections.
“It’s kind of like a brotherhood,” he said. “They talked about when they came in and where they were stationed.”
With the roof repaired and tradition restored, the VFW is already looking forward to the next holiday meal, which will be held at Christmas.
“Happy Thanksgiving,” Aguirre said. “Thanks to the community we are able to do this.”
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