While many people know that the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is a social club and a veterans' service organization, the community may not realize that the VFW also supports local charities and provides activities that are open to the public.

Locally, Gap VFW Post 7418 offers weekly specials in its kitchen, karaoke and free family bingo. The post includes a canteen, pool tables, an outdoor eating area and a downstairs meeting room. The property, situated on approximately 10 acres, also offers an outdoor picnic grove and pavilion that the public may rent and a ball field.

The VFW offers membership to veterans, as well as social memberships. VFW members are veterans who have honorably served overseas in an area of foreign conflict. Those who are not eligible for VFW membership but are the parent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, child or grandchild of a qualifying veteran can apply for membership in the VFW Auxiliary.

"The post has approximately 123 regular members, which are people who served in conflict," explained Lucinda Fisher, the steward of Post 7418, noting that members include Vietnam and Korean War veterans.

The post's primary goal is to help veterans in need. Most recently, veterans were invited to the post to learn about their Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits during a program held in July. "When a veteran needs help, they come to us. We can either give them help ourselves or we can steer them to where they can get the help," said quartermaster Bob Charlesen.

The post supports local fire companies and other veterans' organizations, and it participates in Wreaths Across America. In June, the post held a fundraiser to benefit Woerth it Hollow, which provides equine-assisted therapy to veterans and people with disabilities.

Seasonal activities are also offered. "This is a family-friendly (post)," said Charlesen. "You can bring your children. We have Christmas parties for the kids, Halloween parties and Easter egg hunts, and you don't have to be a member to come to those."

"You don't have to be a member for any of our food specials. You do have to be a member to purchase alcohol," Fisher added.

Currently, the Gap VFW is looking to add new members. "COVID hurt us. We shut down and it's been a struggle to bounce back," said Fisher, noting that the post was able to make several building improvements during the shutdown, including the addition of new flooring.

Those interested in joining the post are asked to complete a membership application. "If they don't have a sponsor, we will find one for them," Fisher said. "We definitely need younger veterans (to join)."

Charlesen recently set up an informational table at Strasburg Community Days to encourage membership. "Most people that came over were shocked to hear that they could join a VFW club," he stated.

The Gap VFW Post is located at 4988 Lincoln Highway East, Kinzers. For more information, including details about upcoming events and food specials, visit http://www.facebook.com/vfwgap.