Stamps For The Wounded

Stamps for the Wounded (SFTW) is a service organization dedicated to providing comfort and stimulating activity to U.S. veterans through stamp collecting. SFTW sends stamps, covers, supplies and literature to enable veterans to begin, or continue to collect stamps. Stamp collecting is an activity that provides comfort, meaningful activity and social connections … it is not physically challenging and very stimulating.

SFTW has been helping veterans since 1942. We welcome any U.S. veteran who would like to begin, or continue collecting stamps, to join our program to receive stamps and philatelic materials.

1. Foundation: The program was founded by a group of passionate stamp collectors who recognized the healing potential of the hobby. Their goal was to create an outlet that could simultaneously support wounded veterans and promote the joys of stamp collecting.

2. Early Initiatives: In the early years, the program started off small, relying on the personal networks of the founders to gather stamp donations. They began distributing these stamps to wounded veterans as a pilot project to assess the feasibility and positive impact of their idea.

3. Growth and Expansion: As the positive effects of stamp collecting became more evident among participating veterans, "Stamps for the Wounded" gained momentum. They expanded their reach by partnering with veteran recovery centers, hospitals, and other organizations that catered to wounded veterans as well as individual veterans.

4. Outreach: The program focused on raising awareness about the therapeutic benefits of stamp collecting, both within the veteran community and among the general public. They used various channels such as social media, newsletters, and community events to encourage stamp donations, participation, and support.

5. Volunteer Engagement: Recognizing the need for additional assistance, "Stamps for the Wounded" actively recruited volunteers who were passionate about stamp collecting or wanted to contribute their time to support wounded veterans. These volunteers played crucial roles in sorting, packaging, and distributing the donated stamps.

6. Partnerships and Collaborations: Over the years, the program forged partnerships with stamp collectors' associations, stamp clubs, and other organizations in the philatelic community. These collaborations helped to amplify the program's impact and expand its reach.

7. Ongoing Support: "Stamps for the Wounded" remains committed to providing ongoing support to veterans. They have established relationships with various veterans' support organizations to ensure a steady supply of stamp packs and continue fostering the therapeutic benefits of stamp collecting among veterans.

Throughout its history, "Stamps for the Wounded" has stayed true to its mission of using stamp collecting as a means to improve the lives of wounded veterans. Through the dedication of its founders, volunteers, donors, and supporters, the program has evolved into a notable initiative that brings joy, therapeutic benefits, and a sense of community to those who have served their country.

For more information, go to their website, www.stampsforthewounded.org