I recently learned about a program called Coops for Troops from the Coop Dreams Facebook page. I like this idea and I really hope it is successful. According to the Coop Dreams Facebook page, “Coops for Troops will provide chickens, a coop, a starter pack of feed and supplies to returning veterans, the families of deployed military personnel, military schools, and VA hospitals and retirement homes.”
The page adds, “We know they can make a difference for those who feel isolated, depressed, anxious and alone.” I am a veteran and I struggle with feeling all of those things. I don’t necessarily say that I suffer from those things because I am a veteran, but I certainly empathize with my fellow veterans who struggle in those ways. I find myself thinking about my own therapy chickens.
I am so thankful for my chickens. They really do provide me with great therapy. They make me smile and they give my life purpose. Now it is hard to imagine living without them. Before chickens, I spent most of my time indoors in front of the TV and/or computer, but now I spend time outdoors with my girls. The time with them is quality time for sure. I know that is good for my physical and mental health.
I don’t have any human children, but the chickens bring out my maternal side. They are constantly on my mind and a frequent topic of conversation. People always ask me about my girls. I am proud of them when they regularly lay their eggs. Even though I don’t prefer a broody chick, I still think they are precious when their mothering instinct kicks in. I have bantam chickens and they are such cute little things. I really just enjoy watching them. They each have their own personality.
I really hope the Coops for Troops can bring the joy of chickens to veterans and military families. If you want to learn more about it, check out Coop Dreams on Facebook. The fundraising link is Coops for Troops Challenge. What a great way to show love to veterans.
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