The season of thanks is nearly here, and a local nonprofit is finding meaningful ways to
give back to those who have served. Operation Volunteers for Veterans (Operation V4V) was incorporated earlier this year with a strong and clear purpose—to honor and support Lake County Veterans through direct engagement, volunteerism, and partnership. While still in its early stages, Operation V4V is already connecting with the community and building relationships with trusted Veteran-serving organizations.
This year, Operation V4V is offering 20 free “Thank You for Your Service” Thanksgiving Meal Kits to Lake County Veterans who would appreciate or benefit from a holiday meal. Each meal kit includes uncooked ingredients to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving dinner:
- A 10–12 lb. turkey
- 3 lbs. of potatoes (red, russet, or sweet/yam)
- A vegetable of your choice (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Stuffing
- Dinner rolls (white or wheat, fresh or frozen)
- Dessert or fruit (your choice: pie, cake, cookies, cupcakes, or fresh fruit)
- A stick of butter
Veterans will select only the items they wish to receive
To sign up, email OperationV4V@gmail.com or call/text 763-229-7659 (please leave a message). The deadline for signing up is Friday, November 21 at 5:00 PM, and kits are first come, first served — only 20 available. Deliveries will take place between November 22 and 26, with all deliveries completed by 3:00 PM on Wednesday, November 26. Veterans must reside in Lake County to be eligible.
Medicare Open Enrollment and Veterans’ Health Care
Open Enrollment is underway for Medicare users, and many Minnesotans are finding that some insurers are exiting or reducing their presence in the state’s Medicare Advantage market for 2026. These changes may cause some Veterans to lose or change their private coverage options.
While County Veterans Service Officers (CVSOs) can assist with VA benefits, we are not licensed insurance agents and cannot provide advice or assistance regarding health insurance. However, Veterans are strongly encouraged to enroll in VA health care regardless of age or current insurance. VA health care is not insurance but may offer reliable and affordable alternatives for those affected by upcoming changes. For Medicare-related assistance, please contact a Licensed insurance agent, Medicare: 800-633-4227, or Minnesota Aging Pathways (formerly the Senior LinkAge Line): 800-333-2433.
For help applying for VA health care, contact your CVSO.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall are the Lake County Veterans Service Officers and can be reached at 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
