Gate City Bank collecting new quilts for veterans

Fargo, N.D.-based Gate City Bank and the American Red Cross chapter covering eastern North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota are collecting new quilts for veterans at Veterans Affairs hospitals, homes and veterans' events through Thanksgiving. .A press release states that the quilts, which will go home with veterans once they are discharged from the VA hospital, must either be new and/or made with new materials; be handmade or purchased quilts or fleece blankets; and be strong enough to undergo industrial washing and sterilizing with no loose yarns or strings that could catch on medical equipment. ."The Red Cross supports our U.S. military community from the time a service member takes the oath to life as a veteran," said Kevin Mehrer, executive director for the local American Red Cross chapter. "As cooler weather sets in, the goal is to collect 150 new quilts to comfort our veterans and share the heartfelt gratitude of our community for their service.".The $3.1 billion Gate City Bank has partnered with North Dakota Cares to help military members and their families through recognition, gratitude and engagement. The bank continues paying and providing full benefits for employees who are active-service members while they are on duty. The service members also get an extra two weeks of paid time off when they leave active duty before coming to work. ."At Gate City Bank, the gratefulness we have for our veterans and all they've sacrificed to serve us goes beyond words," said Amy Durbin, executive vice president of data strategies and marketing at Gate City Bank, and board member for the local American Red Cross chapter. "One of many ways we're saying thank you is by making sure they're covered and kept warm with these beautiful quilts and afghans, which have love and appreciation in every stitch."