Coca-Cola puts a smile on Veterans faces
On Nov. 14, 2024, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United and Cheeriodicals turned a cloudy morning into a joyous occasion at the Chattanooga VA Clinic.
Cheeriodicals is a company that creates personalized team-building experiences that delivers cheer to hospitalized children, Veterans, and more.
This year, Cheeriodicals partnered with Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, with additional support from Body Armor, in their team building event to ensure Veterans received the recognition they deserved
Coca-Cola employees packed 150 gift bags the morning of Nov. 14. Each bag was filled with a blanket, beverage tumbler, socks, everyday items, and a handwritten note from the employee who packed it to the Veteran.
CEO of Cheeriodicals Gary Parisher stated, “We partner with large corporations and fill boxes or bags to deliver to local charities or hospitals. We shipped materials and bags for Veterans to Coca-Cola, and a team of about 75 or 80 employees were waiting, and they packed the bags enthusiastically.”
Once the bags were packed, some employees and the famous Coca-Cola polar bear headed to the Chattanooga VA clinic to deliver the goods. They were met with smiles, gratitude, and even a few hugs of appreciation.
“I was greeted with smiles as soon as I came through the front door. This was so cool, and an unexpected surprise to have you folks here celebrating us,” said Vietnam Navy Veteran John Baker who received a bag.
This wasn’t just about the donations, but the outpouring of love and support for local Veterans.
Gordan Lance, an Army Veteran, smiled and said, “I got my picture made with the Coca-Cola bear, and everything looks great. I appreciate the thought that they took into doing this for us.”
To learn more about volunteering or donation opportunities at VA, contact TVHS Center for Development and Civic Engagement at tvhvss@va.gov or 423-893-6500 extension 27093.