E14: From Deployment to Home: How Operation Troop Appreciation Changes Lives

What makes Monica Orluk with Operation Troop Appreciation a good neighbor? 

Operation Troop Appreciation: Two Decades of Supporting Military and Veterans

When Monica Orluk joined Operation Troop Appreciation (OTA) on July 4, 2004, she couldn't have predicted the organization would still be thriving two decades later. What began as a mission to support deployed troops has evolved into a comprehensive support system for both active military members and veterans in Western Pennsylvania. This evolution represents not just the changing face of military support but also the persistent needs that exist beyond government assistance.

The organization operates two parallel programs that address distinct needs within the military community. Their original mission supports active-duty military deployed worldwide, whether for combat operations or humanitarian missions. This support comes in forms many civilians might not consider – nutritional supplements, personal hygiene items, portable food options, and energy drink mixes that fit into pockets and backpacks. These aren't just conveniences; they're necessities for troops stationed in remote locations without access to military supply stores. The items OTA provides allow service members to maintain their health, energy, and morale during challenging deployments, offering a tangible reminder that people back home care about their service and sacrifices.

In 2013, as troop deployments decreased and veterans returned home, OTA recognized a critical gap in veteran services. After extensive consultation with the VA and other veteran organizations, they launched their Welcome Home Veteran Support Program in April 2014. This program focuses on veterans in Western Pennsylvania who face housing insecurity – those emerging from homelessness, at risk of becoming homeless, or transitioning from inpatient care for physical, psychological, or substance abuse issues. While federal programs might provide housing, OTA discovered that veterans often received little support after moving in. The statistics were alarming: approximately 70% of these veterans would return to homelessness within a year without additional assistance.

OTA's Welcome Home program addresses this gap with three practical services. First, they provide brand-new beds for veterans and their family members – complete mattresses, box springs, and frames – through a partnership with a local mattress company. Second, they deliver Welcome Home Move-In Starter Kits containing essential household items like pots, pans, dishes, linens, and cleaning supplies. These kits enable veterans to cook healthy meals and maintain clean living spaces rather than resorting to expensive fast food and unsanitary conditions. Third, they offer transportation services for critical appointments, including medical visits, therapy sessions, court appearances, and job interviews – eliminating another significant barrier to stability.

What makes OTA particularly unique in the charity landscape is their operational model. As a 100% volunteer-run organization, approximately 90% of all donations directly fund their programs rather than administrative costs or salaries. This efficiency is rare in the nonprofit world and ensures donors' contributions have maximum impact. Recently, OTA has expanded their physical presence by purchasing and renovating a two-story headquarters building that will allow them to scale their Welcome Home program and create a community space where veterans can connect with one another. This investment in physical infrastructure demonstrates their commitment to long-term service and community building among veterans.

For those wanting to support Operation Troop Appreciation, opportunities abound through their website (operationtroopappreciation.org) or Facebook page. The organization welcomes both donations and volunteers at their West Mifflin location. What began as a chance meeting between two businesswomen with complementary skills has blossomed into two decades of meaningful support for those who volunteer to serve our country. The work continues because the need persists – and because OTA understands that true support means addressing practical needs that make the difference between struggling and thriving.

To learn more about Operation Troop Appreciation go to: 

https://operationtroopappreciation.org/

Operation Troop Appreciation

(412)759-0696