Operation Code Vet Brings Help To Former Service Members

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — County officials are leading a program called Operation Code Vet to give a helping hand to those who have served.

Under the program, community volunteers do house and yard work at veterans' homes so that they don't get hit with fines for violating neighborhood standards. Government agencies, nonprofits and businesses all pitch in to help.

"Veterans made great sacrifices for their nation," county officials said in a statement. "So, when their properties are in disrepair and they lack capacity to address the problems, Operation Code Vet can help."

James Palmer is one vet who's benefited from the program. The Vietnam War veteran has a kidney condition and has been on dialysis for two years, officials said, making strenuous work around the house more challenging.

Operation Code Vet has been there to help with chores including "trimming trees, repairing his fence, [and] hauling away junk."

"It was a solution to a lot of my problems," Palmer said.

The county has a similar program that helps seniors who are not able to maintain their properties.

Individuals or people interested in pitching in with Operation Code Vet can sign up to help by simply filling out a form.

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