‘They are not alone’: Local students empty piggy banks to help Afghan refugee children
When given the opportunity to make a difference, students at Roanoke Catholic chose to help the children of Afghan Refugees now living in the Commonwealth. Students have been donating money all week to send to Commonwealth Catholic Charities to purchase backpacks and supplies.
Saving lives is a family affair for Covington’s EMT state champions
While it may be hard to imagine working with your immediate family members – the Markham’s love it. They admit it can be challenging at times, but they say they’ve formed a bond that helps them better treat patients. “It’s almost like you know what the other one needs or is doing without them ever having to talk,” said Shane Markham, the family’s son.
VMI cadets join Kyle Petty to honor veterans during surprise presentation at D-Day Memorial
In a surprise ceremony, Virginia Military Institute cadets paid their respects to veterans and the children's charity Victory Junction they were raising money for by presenting the colors. “To have the color guard from VMI be here, It was so special,” Petty said.
Serving those who served their country: New program helps homeless veterans move into a home of their own
A new program is helping homeless veterans gain back their independence as they transition out of a shelter and into their own home. Thanks to a generous donation and partnership between ARCH and the McLeod Family Foundation, more than $21,000 will be designated over the course of this year to help homeless veterans at ARCH's trust house in Roanoke to help move into a permanent home.
High-flying rescue sends wildlife rehabbers on wild-goose chase at Virginia Tech
While rehabbers at the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center in Roanoke are used to some precarious rescue operations, their latest literally sent them on a wild-goose chase 85-feet in the air. A young Canada goose was found tangled in netting on the facilities drone cage.
Bringing broken spirits back to life: Local rescue overcomes the odds to save horses in need
While much of the business world was shutting down over the past year, life on the farm only got busier. This is especially true for a local horse rescue that despite facing a fire and financial hardships, managed to care for a growing number of horses in need.
Communities keep traditions alive despite another pandemic Easter
The Easter Bunny is hopping into town, and while kids may not be able to give him hugs or sit on his lap for a photo again this year, they are finding creative ways to make memories.Although this will mark the second year in a row we have spent the Easter holiday socially distanced, there is still a lot to celebrate. Families are making the most of it.
Spring fever? Animals feel it, too! Baby season begins at SWVA Wildlife Center
While many of us are ready to get out and about, animals are feeling spring fever too, especially those who have wintered indoors while recovering at the Southwest Virginia Wildlife Center. The center is at the start of what Executive Director Sabrina Garvin calls their baby season, the center’s busiest time of year.
Franklin County family credits kindness of strangers for saving their dog
A local toddler and his family are finally reunited with their tiny pup thanks to the kindness of strangers, and the generosity of the community who stepped up to raise $3,000 to pay for it's vet bill after an unexpected illness.
Salem puppy on Team Fluffs starting roster in the Puppy Bowl
Southwest Virginia may not have a local team going to the Super Bowl this year, but it does have a local dog competing on the gridiron. Hailing from Salem, 8-month-old Marshall, a Boston terrier, is on the starting roster for Team Fluff at Puppy Bowl 17.
Floyd County’s creative use of CARES Act money kept a community well-fed, in business
We have all had to come together to get through the pandemic, and in many instances come up with creative ways to still make daily life work. The way Floyd County used it’s Cares Act Funds truly showcases that community spirit. During tough economic times they are keeping the community fed and in business.